Patent Publication Number: US-8973214-B2

Title: Cyclone chamber and dirt collection assembly for a surface cleaning apparatus

Description:
FIELD 
     The disclosure relates to surface cleaning apparatuses, such as vacuum cleaners. 
     INTRODUCTION 
     Various constructions for surface cleaning apparatuses, such as vacuum cleaners, are known. Currently, many surface cleaning apparatuses are constructed using at least one cyclonic cleaning stage. Air is drawn into the vacuum cleaners through a dirty air inlet and conveyed to a cyclone inlet. The rotation of the air in the cyclone results in some of the particulate matter in the airflow stream being disentrained from the airflow stream. This material is then collected in a dirt bin collection chamber, which may be at the bottom of the cyclone or in a direct collection chamber exterior to the cyclone chamber (see for example WO2009/026709 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,078,761). One or more additional cyclonic cleaning stages and/or filters may be positioned downstream from the cyclone. 
     SUMMARY 
     The following summary is provided to introduce the reader to the more detailed discussion to follow. The summary is not intended to limit or define the claims. 
     According to one aspect, a cyclone bin assembly comprises a dirt collection chamber having two portions separated by a passage that includes a diverter wall. Dirty air can flow through the passageway, between the first and second portions. The diverter wall is positioned proximate the dirt outlet of the cyclone chamber, and may be configured to accelerate the air flow passing through the passage. 
     The dirt outlet of the cyclone chamber may be asymmetrically arranged relative to the first and second portions so as to direct more airflow into the first portion of the dirt collection chamber then the second, downstream portion. 
     Alternately, or in addition, one of the portions, and preferably the downstream portion, has a dirt collection surface that is located behind or below (depending upon orientation) a divider wall. Air may circulate or swirl in the portion of the dirt collection chamber above or in front of the divider wall. The divider wall is positioned to provide a partial break between the air that is in movement and the surface on which particulate matter may accumulate. The divider wall may cause air to travel above the settled particulate matter, thereby reducing re-entrainment. Further, the divider wall may direct air away from the surface on which particulate matter has accumulates and thereby provide a wind shadow in which light particulate matter may settle. 
     Preferably, air which has some entrained dirt leaves a cyclone chamber through, e.g., a slot outlet. The air may be directed to a first or upstream portion of the dirt collection chamber where particulate matter is deposited. The air may then travel to a second or downstream portion of the dirt collection chamber. The air circulates within the second portion wherein fine particulate matter may settle out. The air then returns to the cyclone chamber via the dirt outlet. 
     An advantage of this is that it the percentage of finer particulate matter that is disentrained from the air stream may be increased. 
     In accordance with this aspect, a cyclone bin assembly comprises a cyclone chamber having an air inlet, an air outlet, a dirt outlet and first and second opposed ends. The cyclone bin assembly may comprise a dirt collection chamber in communication with the dirt outlet. The dirt bin may surround at least a portion of the cyclone chamber and comprising first and second portions. The first and second portions may comprise discrete chambers that are separated from each other by a passage extending between the dirt outlet and a wall of the dirt collection chamber. A portion of the wall facing the dirt outlet may extend inwardly towards the dirt outlet. 
     The cyclone chamber may have a longitudinal axis. The dirt outlet may have a height in a direction of the longitudinal axis and the portion of the wall may have a height so as to extend along the height of the dirt outlet. 
     The portion of the wall may extend away from the dirt outlet along at least a portion of a length of the cyclone chamber. 
     The dirt collection chamber may comprise a first opposed end and a second opposed end. The dirt outlet may be positioned adjacent the second end of the dirt collection chamber and the passage terminates prior to the first opposed end of the dirt collection chamber. 
     The portion of the wall facing the dirt outlet may extend convexly inwardly towards the dirt outlet. 
     A vacuum cleaner may comprise an air flow path extending from a dirty air inlet to a clean air outlet. The air flow path may include a suction motor in a suction motor housing and the cyclone bin assembly. The portion of the wall may be configured to sit on a portion of the suction motor housing. 
     A vacuum cleaner may comprise an air flow path extending from a dirty air inlet to a clean air outlet. The air flow path including a suction motor in a suction motor housing and the cyclone bin assembly. The first and second portions may be configured to be positioned on opposed sides of the suction motor. 
     The air inlet and the air outlet may be at the first opposed end of the cyclone chamber. 
     The dirt outlet may be spaced from the first opposed end. 
     The dirt outlet may beat the second end of the cyclone chamber. 
     The cyclone chamber may comprise a sidewall extending between the first and second opposed ends and the dirt outlet may comprise a slot that may be provided in the sidewall adjacent the second end. 
     A portion of the sidewall may terminate prior to the second end and may define a terminal end of the sidewall. The terminal end may extend part way around the cyclone chamber. 
     The dirt outlet may have an angular extent around the cyclone chamber and a larger portion of the angular extent of the slot faces the first portion. 
     The cyclone chamber may have a direction of rotation and the first portion may be angularly positioned upstream of the second portion in the direction of rotation. 
     The dirt collection chamber may comprise first and second opposed ends. The dirt outlet may be positioned adjacent the second end of the dirt collection chamber. The first and second portions have ends first and second sides. The first side may be positioned adjacent the passage and the second side may be angularly spaced from the passage. The second portion may have a divider wall that extends inwardly towards the second end of the dirt collection chamber from the first opposed end of the dirt collection chamber and the divider wall may be spaced from the second side. 
     The divider wall may be positioned adjacent the first side. 
     The cyclone chamber may have a longitudinal axis that is essentially horizontal. 
     The dirt outlet may be provided in a lower portion of the cyclone chamber and may have a portion that is positioned at an upper end of the dirt collection chamber. 
     The dirt outlet may have a portion that is positioned at an upper end of one of the first and second portions. 
     The dirt outlet may have a portion that is positioned at an upper end of the first portion. 
     The portion of the wall may be configured to produce an airstream travelling through the passage between the first and second portions that may have a velocity that is greater than a velocity of the airstream immediately upstream and downstream of the passage. 
     The cyclone chamber may have a direction of rotation and the first portion may be angularly positioned upstream of the second portion in the direction of rotation. 
     The dirt collection chamber may comprise first and second opposed ends. The dirt outlet may be positioned adjacent the second end of the dirt collection chamber. The first and second portions may have first and second sides. The first side may be positioned adjacent the passage and the second side may be angularly spaced from the passage. The second portion may have a divider wall that extends inwardly towards the second end of the dirt collection chamber from the first opposed end of the dirt collection chamber and the divider wall may be spaced from the second side. 
     The divider wall may be positioned adjacent the first side. 
    
    
     
       DRAWINGS 
       Reference is made in the detailed description to the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a surface cleaning apparatus; 
         FIG. 2  is a left side elevation view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a rear lower perspective view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a partially exploded view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 , with the side wheels exploded; 
         FIG. 5  is a partially exploded view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 , with a side wheel, seal plate and pre-motor filter exploded; 
         FIG. 6  is a side view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 , with a side wheel, cover plate and pre-motor filter removed; 
         FIG. 7  is a partially exploded view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 , with a side wheel, cover plate and cord wrap spool exploded; 
         FIG. 7   a  is the partially exploded view of  FIG. 7 , with the cord wrap spool in the cord wrap chamber; 
         FIG. 8  is a section taken along line  8 - 8  in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 9  is an enlarged view of a portion of  FIG. 8 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a section taken along line  10 - 10  in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 , with a cyclone bin assembly removed; 
         FIG. 12  is a top perspective view of the cyclone bin assembly of  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 13  is perspective view of the cyclone bin assembly of  FIG. 12 , with one end wall open; 
         FIG. 14  is perspective view of the cyclone bin assembly of  FIG. 13 , with one end wall removed; and 
         FIG. 15  is a section view taken along line  15 - 15  in  FIG. 14 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1 to 3 , an embodiment of a surface cleaning apparatus  100  is shown. In the embodiment illustrated, the surface cleaning apparatus  100  is a canister vacuum cleaner. 
     General Overview 
     This detailed description discloses various features of surface cleaning apparatus  100 . It will be appreciated that a particular embodiment may use one or more of these features. In appropriate embodiments, the surface cleaning apparatus  100  may be another type of surface cleaning apparatus, including, for example, a hand operable surface cleaning apparatus, an upright vacuum cleaner, a stick vac, a wet-dry vacuum cleaner and a carpet extractor. 
     Referring still to  FIG. 1 , the surface cleaning apparatus  100  has a dirty air inlet  102 , a clean air outlet  104  and an airflow passage extending therebetween. In the embodiment shown, the dirty air inlet  102  is the air inlet  234  of an optional suction hose connector  106  that can be connected to the downstream end of a flexible suction hose or other type of cleaning accessory tool, including, for example, a surface cleaning head, a wand and a nozzle. Any standard surface cleaning head may be provided on the upstream end of the flexible hose or wand. In some embodiments, a hose connector may not be used. Alternately, or in addition, the hose or wand may be connected directly to treatment member  108 . 
     From the dirty air inlet  102 , the airflow passage extends through an air treatment member  108  that can treat the air in a desired manner, including for example removing dirt particles and debris from the air. Preferably, as shown in the illustrated example, the air treatment member  108  comprises a cyclone bin assembly  110 . Alternatively, or in addition, the air treatment member  108  can comprise a bag, a filter or other air treating means. In some embodiments, the air treatment member may be removably mounted to main body  112  or may be fixed in main body  112 . In some embodiments, the cyclone bin assembly may be of any design or it may use one or more features of the cyclone bin assembly disclosed herein. 
     A suction motor  111  ( FIG. 8 ) is preferably mounted within a main body  112  of the surface cleaning apparatus  100  and is in fluid communication with the cyclone bin assembly  110 . 
     As exemplified in  FIG. 11 , the body  112  of the surface cleaning apparatus  100  preferably is a rollable, canister-type body that comprises a platform  114  and two opposing sidewalls  116   a ,  116   b  that cooperate to define a central cavity  118 . The surface cleaning apparatus  100  also preferably comprises two main side wheels  120   a ,  120   b , rotatably coupled to the sidewalls  116   a  and  116   b , respectively. 
     The clean air outlet  104 , which is in fluid communication with an outlet of the suction motor  111 , is preferably provided in the body  112 . In the illustrated example, the dirty air inlet  102  is preferably located toward the front  122  of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 , and the clear air outlet is preferably located toward the rear  124 . 
     Rotation Mount for the Main Side Wheels 
     Preferably, as shown in the illustrated example, the body sidewalls  116   a,b  are generally circular and cover substantially the entire side faces of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 . One main side wheel  120   a ,  120   b  is coupled to the outer face of each body sidewall  116   a  and  116   b , respectively. Optionally, the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b  may have a larger diameter  126  than the body sidewalls  116   a,b  and can completely cover the outer faces of the sidewalls  116   a,b . Each side wheel  120   a,b  is rotatably supported, e.g., by a corresponding axle mount  128   a ,  128   b , which extends from the body sidewalls  116   a  and  116   b , respectively. The main side wheels  120   a  ( FIG. 6) and 120   b  ( FIG. 7 ) are rotatable about a primary axis of rotation  130 . In the illustrated example, the primary axis of rotation  130  passes through the cyclone bin assembly  110  (see for example  FIG. 8 ). 
     Optionally, at least one of the side wheels  120   a,b  can be openable, and preferably detachable from the body  112 . Referring to  FIGS. 4-9 , in the illustrated example both side wheels  120   a  and  120   b  are detachably coupled to their corresponding axle mounts  128   a  and  128   b  by axles comprising threaded hub assemblies  132   a  and  132   b , respectively, and can be removed from the body  112 . Removing the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b  from the body  112 , or otherwise positioning them in an open configuration, may allow a user to access a variety of components located in compartments between the side wheels  120   a  and  120   b  and the corresponding sidewalls  116   a  and  116   b , as explained in greater detail below. 
     For clarity, reference will now be made to  FIG. 9 , which is an enlarged view of hub assembly  132   b , and it is understood that analogous features are provided on hub assembly  132   a  and can be referenced herein using the same references numbers having an “a” suffix. Hub assembly  132   b  provides a rotational mount for wheel  120   b  and may be of various designs. 
     As exemplified, hub assembly  132   b  comprises a threaded socket  134   b  and mating threaded lug  136   b . The threaded inserts  138   b  provide a threaded central bores for receiving the mating threaded shafts  140   b  on the lugs  136   b.    
     In the illustrated each threaded socket  134   b  comprises a threaded insert member  138   b , that is positioned within a corresponding axle mount  128   b , and preferably non-rotatably and non-removably mounted, in axle mount  128   b . The threaded insert  138   b  may be non-rotatably fastened to the axle mount  128   b , for example by using a screw or other fastener, a sliding locking fit, an adhesive and the like. Each lug  136   b  comprises a thread shaft  140   b  extending from a head  142   b . The threaded shaft  140   b  has external threads for engaging the threaded bore of the threaded insert  138   b.    
     Alternatively, instead of providing a separate thread insert member, the socket  134   b  can comprise integral threads formed on the inner surfaces of the axle mount  128   b . Alternately the sidewalls may include a bearing or the like. 
     In the illustrated example, the heads  142   a ,  142   b  are configured to be engaged by a user. Each lug  136   a ,  136   b  is rotatable between a locked and an unlocked position relative to its insert  138   a ,  138   b . In the unlocked position, the lugs  136   a ,  136   b  can be axially inserted and removed from the inserts  138   a ,  138   b . Removing the lugs  136   a ,  136   b  from the inserts  138   a ,  138   b  can allow a user to remove the side wheels  120   a  and  120   b  retained by the lugs  136   a  and  136   b , respectively. To re-attach the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b , a user can position the side wheel  120   a ,  120   b  over the corresponding sidewall  116   a ,  116   b , insert the lugs  136   a ,  136   b  into the treaded inserts  138   a ,  138   b  and then rotate the lugs  136   a ,  136   b , in a locking direction  144   a  ( FIG. 2 ),  144   b  ( FIG. 11 ), into the locked position to retain the wheels  120   a ,  120   b  in their operating position. 
     In the illustrated example, the heads  142   a  and  142   b  are sized and shaped to be grasped by the bare fingers of a user. Configuring the heads  142   a ,  142   b  to be grasped by the bare fingers of a user may help facilitate the attachment and release of the lugs  136   a ,  136   b  from the threaded inserts  138   a ,  138   b  by hand, without requiring additional tools. Alternatively, or in addition to be graspable by bare fingers, the heads  136   a ,  136   b  can be configured to be engaged by a tool, including, for example, a screw driver, socket, allan key and wrench. When assembled in the manner shown in  FIG. 8 , both the lugs  136   a ,  136   b  and threaded inserts  138   a ,  138   b  remain fixed and do not rotate relative to the body  112  when the surface cleaning apparatus  100  is in use. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 9 , lug  136   b  comprises a wheel bearing surface  146   b  configured to rotatably support an inner edge  148   b  of a corresponding the side wheel  116   b . Allowing rotation between the wheel bearing surface  146   b  and the inner edge  148   b  of the wheel  120   b  facilitates rotation of the side wheel  120   b  relative to the body  112 . Optionally, the interface between the wheel bearing surface  146   b  and the inner edge  148   b  of the side wheel  120   b  can be lubricated or otherwise treated to help reduce friction at the interface may be provided. In some examples, a rotary bearing or other type of bearing apparatus may be used to support the side wheels  120   a  and  120   b  on the hub assemblies  132   a  and  132   b . In the illustrated example, the wheel bearing surfaces  146  on the lug portions  132   a ,  132   b  are identical, and the inner edges  148  of the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b  are identical. Providing identical wheel bearing surfaces  146   a , 146   b  and inner edge surfaces  148   a ,  148   b  may allows the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b  to be interchangeable, such that each side wheel  120   a ,  120   b  can be used on either side of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 . 
     Preferably, the friction between the wheel bearing surface  146   b  and the inner edge  148   b  of the side wheel  120   b  is sufficiently low to allow the side wheel  120   b  to rotate relative to the lug  136   b  without exerting a significant rotation torque on the lug  132   b . However, in some circumstances, the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b  may exert a rotational torque on the lugs  136   a ,  136   b . Optionally, the threads on the lugs  136   a ,  136   b  and inserts  138   a ,  138   b  can be configured so that the direction of forward rotation  147  of a side wheel, for example side wheel  120   a  in  FIG. 2 , coincides with the locking direction  144   a  of the corresponding lug, for example lug  138   a . In this configuration, the locking direction  144   a  of the lug  136   a  can be opposite the locking direction  144   b  of lug  136   b . Providing lugs  136   a ,  136   b  with threads configured to having opposing locking directions  144   a ,  144   b  can enable each lug  136   a ,  136   b  to have a locking direction  144   a ,  144   b  that coincides with, e.g., the forward direction of rotation of the side wheel  120   a ,  120   b . Preferably, as shown in the illustrated example, the locking direction of lug  144   a  is counter-clockwise (as viewed in  FIG. 2 ), and the locking direction of lug  144   b  is clockwise (as viewed in  FIG. 11 ). 
     In this configuration, when the surface cleaning apparatus  100  is being pulled in a forward direction, rotational torque exerted by the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b  on the lugs  136   a ,  136   b  may drive the lugs  136   a ,  136   b  toward their locked positions. This may help reduce the chances of a lug  136   a ,  136   b  becoming unintentionally loosened or unscrewed by the rotation of the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b.    
     Referring to  FIGS. 4 and 8 , optionally, each wheel  120   a ,  120   b  may comprise a tire  149   a ,  149   b  extending around the perimeter of the wheel. The tires  149   a ,  149   b  can be formed from a different material than the wheels  120   a ,  120   b . Optionally, the tire  149   a ,  149   b  can be formed from a material that is softer than the wheel material, for example rubber, which may help increase the traction of the wheels  120   a ,  120   b.    
     Preferably, the main side wheels  120   a ,  120   b  are configured to carry a majority of the load of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 , when the surface cleaning apparatus  100  is in use. In the example illustrated, the surface cleaning apparatus  100  may ride solely or primarily on the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b  when it is being pulled in a forward or backward direction by a user. 
     Stabilizer Wheels 
     Optionally, the surface cleaning apparatus  100  can comprise one or more stabilizer wheels, in addition to the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b . Preferably, the stabilizer wheels are configured to help support the surface cleaning apparatus  100  in a generally horizontal position as exemplified in  FIG. 2  when the surface cleaning apparatus  100  is at rest. Optionally, the stabilizer wheels can be configured to not contact the ground when the body  112  is horizontal, and contact the ground when the body  112  rotates forward, or backward, by a predetermined amount. Configuring the stabilizer wheels in this manner may help prevent the surface cleaning apparatus  100  from over-rotating in a forward or backward direction. Preferably, if front and rear stabilizer wheels are provided, then the stabilizer wheels are positioned such that only one will contact a horizontal floor surface at a time. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-4 , in the illustrated example, the surface cleaning apparatus  100  comprises a front stabilizer wheel  150  and a rear stabilizer wheel  152 . The front stabilizer wheel is preferably a cylindrical, roller-type wheel mounted toward the front of the body  112  by a pair of mounting brackets  156 . The front stabilizer wheel is rotatable about an axis  154  of rotation that is generally parallel to the primary axis of rotation  130  and is provided forward of the primary axis of rotation  130 . Optionally, the front stabilizer wheel  150  can be located so that the axis of rotation  154  is outside the diameter  126  of the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b.    
     When the surface cleaning apparatus  100  is in a horizontal configuration, for example when it is in use, the front stabilizer wheel  150  may be spaced above the floor (see  FIG. 2 ). When the surface cleaning apparatus  100  pivots forward, the front stabilizer wheel  150  can contact the ground. With the front stabilizer wheel  150  on the ground, the surface cleaning apparatus  100  is supported in a generally stable rest position by three points of contact (the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b  and the front stabilizer wheel  150 ). 
     Preferably, as shown in the example illustrated, the rear stabilizer wheel  152  is a swivelable, caster-type wheel. The rear stabilizer wheel  152  may be swivelably mounted in a recess  158  on the underside of a post-motor filter housing  160  (see also  FIG. 10 ), which extends from the rear of the body  112 . The rear stabilizer wheel  152  is preferably mounted behind the primary axis of rotation  130 . In the illustrated example, the rear stabilizer wheel  152  can be in rolling contact with the ground when the surface cleaning apparatus  100  is in the horizontal position. In this configuration, the rear stabilizer wheel  152  can help support the surface cleaning apparatus  100  when it is in use, and may help limit rearward rotation of the body  112 . 
     Optionally, the front and rear stabilizer wheels  150 ,  152  can be configured so that only one of the stabilizer wheels  150 ,  152  can contact the ground at any given time when the vacuum cleaner is on a horizontal surface. This prevents both stabilizer wheels  150 ,  152  from simultaneously contacting the ground when the vacuum cleaner is used on a horizontal surface. If both stabilizer wheels contact the ground at the same time, this may interfere with the steering of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 . In the example illustrated, the rear stabilizer wheel  152  is lifted out of contact with the ground when the front stabilizer wheel  150  is in contact with the ground, and vice versa. 
     Cyclone Bin Assembly 
     Referring to  FIGS. 8 ,  10 ,  11 ,  13  and  14 , in the illustrated example, cyclone bin assembly  110  includes a cyclone chamber  162  and a dirt collection chamber  164 . The cyclone bin assembly  110  is detachably mounted in the cavity  118 , laterally between the sidewalls  116   a ,  116   b  and side wheels  120   a ,  120   b . Positioning the cyclone bin assembly  110  in the cavity  118 , between the body sidewalls  116   a ,  116   b  may help protect the cyclone bin assembly  110  from side impacts, for example if the surface cleaning apparatus  100  contacts a piece of furniture or other obstacle. Preferably, the body sidewalls  116   a ,  116   b  have a larger cross-sectional area than the cyclone bin assembly  110 . More preferably, the transverse faces of the cyclone bin assembly  110  are entirely covered by the body sidewalls  116   a ,  116   b.    
     In the illustrated example, the cyclone chamber  162  is bounded by a sidewall  166 , a first end wall  168  and a second end wall  170 . A tangential air inlet  172  is provided in the sidewall of the cyclone chamber  162  and is in fluid communication with the dirty air inlet  102 . Air flowing into the cyclone chamber  162  via the air inlet can circulate around the interior of the cyclone chamber  162  and dirt particles and other debris can become disentrained from the circulating air. 
     A slot  180  formed between the sidewall  166  and the second end wall  170  serves as a cyclone dirt outlet  180  ( FIG. 8 ). Debris separated from the air flow in the cyclone chamber  162  can travel from the cyclone chamber  162 , through the dirt outlet  180  to the dirt collection chamber  164 . 
     Air can exit the cyclone chamber  162  via an air outlet. In the illustrated example, the cyclone air outlet includes a vortex finder  182  ( FIGS. 8 ,  13 ). Optionally, a removable screen  183  can be positioned over the vortex finder  182 . The cyclone chamber  162  extends along a longitudinal cyclone axis  184 . In the example illustrated, the longitudinal cyclone axis is aligned with the orientation of the vortex finder  182  and is generally transverse to the direction of movement of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 . The cyclone chamber  162  has a generally circular cross sectional shape (taken in a plane perpendicular to the cyclone axis) and has a cyclone diameter  186 . 
     The dirt collection chamber  164  comprises a sidewall  174 , a first end wall  176  and an opposing second end wall  178 . Preferably, as shown in the illustrated example, at least a portion of the dirt collection chamber sidewall  174  is integral with a portion of the cyclone chamber sidewall  166 , and at least a portion of the first cyclone end wall  168  is integral with a portion of the first dirt collection chamber end wall  176 . 
     A lower surface  188  of the cyclone bin assembly  110  is preferably configured to rest on the platform  114 , and the first and second end walls  168 ,  170  of the cyclone bin assembly  110  may be shaped to engage the inner surfaces of the body sidewalls  116   a ,  116   b , respectively. The upper portion of the cyclone bin assembly  110  (as viewed when installed in the cavity  118 ) can have a radius of curvature that generally corresponds to the radius of curvature of the body sidewalls  116   a ,  116   b  and the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b . Matching the curvature of the cyclone bin assembly  110  with the curvature of the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b  may help facilitate mounting of the cyclone bin assembly  110  within the body  112 , so that the walls of the cyclone bin assembly  110  do not extend radially beyond the body sidewalls  116   a ,  116   b  or main side wheels  120   a ,  120   b.    
     Referring to  FIG. 13 , the second dirt collection chamber end wall  178  is preferably pivotally connected to the dirt collection chamber sidewall  174 . The second dirt collection chamber end wall  178  can be opened to empty dirt and debris from the interior of the dirt collection chamber  164 . Optionally, the cyclone chamber is openable concurrently with the dirt collection chamber. Accordingly, for example, the second cyclone end wall  170  is integral with and is openable with the second dirt collection chamber end wall  178 . Opening the second cyclone end wall  170  can allow dirt and debris to be emptied from the cyclone chamber  162 . The second dirt collection chamber sidewall  178  can be retained in the closed position by a releasable latch  204 . 
     Optionally, the screen  183  and/or the vortex finder  182  can be removable from the cyclone chamber  162  and can be removed when the second dirt collection chamber end wall  178  is open. 
     Cyclone Assembly Bin Lock 
     Referring to  FIGS. 11-14 , a releasable bin locking mechanism  190  can be used to secure the cyclone bin assembly  110  within the cavity  118 . Preferably, the bin locking mechanism  190  retains the cyclone bin assembly  110  within the cavity  118  by engaging at least one of the body sidewalls  116   a ,  116   b , although the cyclone bin assembly may alternately, or in addition, be secured to the platform  114 . 
     In the illustrated example, the bin locking mechanism  190  comprises a mechanical linkage comprising an actuating lever  192  pivotally connected to the cyclone bin assembly  110  and a pair of locking pins  194  movably connected to the actuating lever  192 . A release member  196 , that is configured to be engaged by a user, is connected to the actuating lever  192 . Corresponding locking cavities  198  for engaging the locking pins  194  are provided in the body sidewalls  116   a ,  116   b . In the illustrated example, the locking cavities  198  are shaped to slidingly receive the locking pins  194 . Pivoting the actuating lever  192  causes the locking pins  194  to move between a locked position, in which the locking pins  194  extend into the locking cavities  198 , and a retracted position in which the locking pins  194  are free from the locking cavities  198 . Optionally, the bin locking mechanism  190  can include a biasing member, for example spring  200 , for biasing the actuating lever  192  and locking pins  194  toward the locked position. It will be appreciated that a single locking pin  194  may be used. Also, other locking mechanisms may be utilized. 
     A handle  202  is provided on the top of the cyclone bin assembly  110 . The handle  202  is configured to be grasped by a user. When the cyclone bin assembly  110  is mounted on the body  112 , the handle  202  can be used to manipulate the surface cleaning apparatus  100 . When the cyclone bin assembly  110  is removed from the body  112 , the handle  202  can be used to carry the cyclone bin assembly  110 , for example to position the cyclone bin assembly  110  above a waste receptacle for emptying. In the illustrated example, the handle  202  is connected to the dirt collection chamber sidewall  174 . 
     Preferably, the handle  202  is in close proximity to the release member  196  of the bin locking mechanism  190 . Placing the handle  202  and release member  196  in close proximity may allow a user to release the bin locking mechanism  190  and lift the cyclone bin assembly  110  out of the cavity  118  with a single hand. Accordingly, the actuator (e.g., release member  196 ) for the locking mechanism may be located such that the actuator may be operated simultaneously when a user grasps handle  202 , thereby permitting one handed operation of the bin removal. 
     Configuration of the Dirt Collection Chamber 
     Referring to  FIGS. 11-14 , the dirt collection chamber sidewall  174  comprises a recess  206  that is shaped to receive a corresponding portion of the body  112 . In the illustrated example, the platform  114  comprises a generally planar bearing surface  208  for supporting the cyclone bin assembly  110 . The platform  114  also comprises at least a portion of the suction motor housing  210  surrounding the suction motor  111 . In this example, the recess  206  in the dirt collection chamber sidewall  174  is shaped to receive the portion of the motor housing  210  projecting above the planar bearing surface  208 . 
     Preferably, at least a portion of the dirt collection chamber  164  surrounds at least a portion of the suction motor  111  and the suction motor housing  210 . In this example, at least a portion of the dirt collection chamber  164  is positioned between the cyclone chamber  162  and the suction motor housing  210  (and the suction motor  111  therein). The shape of the recess  206  is selected to correspond to the shape of the suction motor housing  210 . Preferably, the suction motor housing is shaped to conform with the shape of the suction motor. Accordingly, suction motor housing may have a first portion  210   a  that overlies the suction fan and a second portion  210   b  that overlies the motor section. Configuring the dirt collection chamber  164  to at least partially surround the suction motor housing  210  may help reduce the overall size of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 , and/or may help increase the capacity of the dirt collection chamber  164 . Alternately, or in addition, the dirt collection chamber  164  may surround at least a portion of the cyclone chamber  162 . 
     Diverter Wall 
     Optionally, the dirt collection chamber  164  can include one or more internal diverter walls. The diverter walls may help separate the dirt collection chamber  164  into separate dirt collection portions. Preferably, the diverter wall can be positioned opposite the dirt outlet  180  of the cyclone chamber  162 . Providing the diverter wall opposite the dirt outlet  180  may help divide the incoming dirt particles and other debris between the first and second dirt collection portions. 
     In the illustrated example, the dirt collection chamber  164  includes a diverter wall  212  that is positioned opposite the dirt outlet  180  and may extend along substantially the entire height  230  ( FIG. 15 ) of the cyclone chamber  162 . As exemplified in  FIG. 15 , diverter all  212  may comprise the portion of the recess that seats on the second portion  210   b  of motor housing  210  that overlies the motor section. 
     In this example, the diverter wall  212  is a curved portion of the dirt collection chamber sidewall  174 , which comprises the inner surface of the recess  206  described above. In other embodiments, the diverter wall  212  can be a separate member or rib extending from the dirt collection chamber sidewall  174 . Alternatively, the diverter wall  212  can be shorter than the cyclone chamber  162 . Preferably, the diverter wall  212  overlies at least a portion of the dirt outlet  180 . In other embodiments, diverter wall  212  may extend all the way to end wall  176  or may terminate prior thereto and preferably at a location spaced from dirt outlet  180  towards end wall  176 . 
     The diverter wall  212  defines a first dirt collection portion  216  on a first side of the diverter wall  212 , and a second dirt collection  218  portion on an opposing second side of the diverter wall  212 . In the illustrated example the diverter wall  212  does not extend all the way to cyclone sidewall  166  and the first and second dirt collection portions  216 ,  218  are not isolated from each other. In this configuration, a relatively narrow throttling passage  220  is defined between the diverter wall  212  and the cyclone sidewall  166 . 
     In use, dirty air from the cyclone chamber  162  can exit the dirt outlet  180  and flow into the dirt collection chamber  164 , as illustrated using arrows  222 . The dirty air flowing through the dirt collection chamber  164  can carry entrained fine dirt particles, and other debris. The passage  220  is configured to allow dirty air, containing dirt particles and other debris to move between the first and second dirt collection portions  216 ,  218 . 
     Preferably, the dirt outlet  180  is asymmetrically positioned relative to the first and second dirt collection portions  216 ,  218 . That is, the dirt outlet  180  is configured so that the centre of the dirt outlet  180 , represented by radially oriented axis  224 , is located within dirt collection portion  216 . In this configuration, the centre of the dirt outlet  180  is not aligned with the diverter wall  212 . Configuring the dirt outlet  180  in this manner may help direct dirty air exiting the dirt outlet  180  toward dirt collection portion  216 . Alternatively, the dirt outlet  180  can be configured so that is symmetrically positioned relative to the dirt collection portions  216 ,  218 . 
     In operation, preferably, the air exits the dirt air outlet  180  and enters first portion  216 . The air travels to or towards the distal part  216   a  and then turns to return through first part  216  towards passage  220 . Some of the entrained dirt will be disentrained as the air changes direction in part  216 . Passage  220  is preferably narrower than the portion of the dirt chamber upstream thereof. Accordingly, this will cause an increase in the velocity of the air travelling through passage  220  to second portion  218 . In particular, as the dirty air moves from the relatively large volume of dirt collection portion  216  to the relatively narrow passage  220 , the velocity of the air, and the fine particles entrained therein, may increase. The air travels to or towards the distal part  218   a  and then turns to return through dirt outlet  180  into the cyclone chamber. Some of the entrained dirt will be disentrained as the air changes direction in part  218 . Further, when the dirty air flow exits the passage  220  and enters the relatively larger volume of dirt collection portion  218 , the velocity of the dirty air may decrease, which may help disentrain the fine dirt particles traveling with the dirty air flow. Accordingly, passage  220  may be used to increase the velocity of the air stream and permit finer dirt to be deposited in second portion  218 . Passing over by the divider wall  212  may also create eddy currents or other types of air flow disruptions, which may also help facilitate fine particle disentrainment. From dirt collection portion  218 , the air can re-enter the cyclone chamber  162  through the dirt outlet  180  and exit via the vortex finder  182 . 
     Optionally, instead of having a curved, convex shape, the diverter wall  212  can have another cross-sectional shape including, for example an angled or triangular cross-section and a rectangular cross-section. Any shape which reduces the width of passage  220  may be used (i.e., a portion of the wall facing the dirt outlet extends inwardly towards the dirt outlet  180 ). 
     Secondary Divider 
     Optionally, the dirt collection chamber  164  can comprise a secondary divider in a dirt collection portion. In the example illustrated, the secondary divider comprises a secondary divider ridge  226  extending inwardly from the end wall opposite the dirt outlet  180 . In the example illustrated, the secondary divider ridge  226  extends from the second end wall  178  and preferably terminates prior to the first end wall  176 , which also comprises the clean air outlet of the cyclone chamber  162 . The secondary divider ridge  226  extends from the cyclone chamber sidewall  174  to the dirt collection chamber sidewall  166 . 
     Providing a secondary divider ridge  226  in the dirt collection portion  218  may help direct air flow toward the dirt outlet  180 , as illustrated by arrows  222 . The secondary divider ridge  226  may also help create additional eddy currents and/or other flow disruptions that may help facilitate the disentrainment of fine dirt particles from the air flow  222 . Directing the air flow toward the dirt outlet  180  may help create a relatively calm region, having relatively low air flow velocity, downstream from the secondary divider ridge  226  towards second end wall  176 , in which fine dirt particles can accumulate. Providing a relatively calm region may help reduce re-entrainment of the fine particles that settle in the calm region into the air flow re-entering the dirt outlet  180 . Accordingly, divider wall  226  may create a wind shield thereby inhibiting the reentrainment of fine dirt that has settled in second portion  218 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 15 , the height  228  of the secondary diverting ridge (the distance it extends inwardly from lower surface  188 ) can be between about 5% and about 95% of the height  230  of the cyclone chamber  162 . Preferably, the height  228  of the secondary diverting ridge  226  is less than about 66% of the height of the cyclone  230 , and more preferably is approximately 30% of the cyclone height  230 . Preferably, the secondary dividing ridge  226  does not extend into the dirt outlet  180 . 
     In the example illustrated, the secondary diverting ridge  226  comprises a portion of sidewall  232  of the tangential air inlet  172 . Alternatively, the secondary diverting ridge  226  can be a separate member extending from the second end wall  178 , and need not comprise the tangential air inlet  172 . While illustrated as having a curved, convex cross-sectional shape, the secondary diverting ridge  226  can have any other suitable cross-sectional shape, including, for example a triangular cross-section and a rectangular cross-section. 
     While the example illustrated is a horizontal or transverse cyclone configuration, the diverter wall  212 , secondary dividing ridge  226  and dirt outlet  180  alignment features described above can also be used, individually or in combination, in a vertically oriented cyclone bin assembly  110 . 
     Suction Hose Connector 
     Referring to  FIGS. 10 and 11 , in the illustrated example, the suction hose connector  106  is connected to the body  112 , and remains connected to the body  112  when the cyclone bin assembly  110  is removed. The suction hose connector  106  comprises an air inlet  234  that is connectable to the suction hose, and an opposing air outlet  236 . A throat portion  238  of the suction hose connector  106  extends between the air inlet  234  and air outlet  236 . Coupling the suction hose connector  106  to the body  112  may help facilitate the removal of the cyclone bin assembly  110  (for example to empty the dirt collection chamber  164 ) while leaving a suction hose connected to the body  112 , via the suction hose connector  106 . 
     The air outlet  236  is configured to connect to the tangential air inlet  172  of the cyclone chamber  162 . In the illustrated example, a sealing face  240  on the tangential air inlet  172  is shaped to match the shape of the air outlet  236  of the suction hose connector  106 . Optionally, a gasket, or other type of sealing member, can be provided at the interface between the sealing face  240  and the air outlet  236 . 
     The air outlet  236  of the suction hose connector  106  and the sealing face  240  of the tangential air inlet  172  are configured so that the sealing face  240  can slide relative to the air outlet  236  (vertically in the illustrated example) as the cyclone bin assembly  110  is being placed on, or lifted off of the platform  114 . Lowering the cyclone bin assembly  110  onto the platform  114  can slide the sealing face  240  into a sealing position relative to the air outlet  236 . 
     Preferably, as exemplified, the sealing face  240  (and preferably part or all of the hose connector) is recessed within the cyclone bin assembly  110 . In the illustrated example, the cyclone bin assembly  110  includes a notch  242  configured to receive the throat portion of the suction hose connector  106  when the cyclone bin assembly  110  is placed on the platform. With the cyclone bin assembly  110  on the platform, at least a portion of the throat  238  and the air outlet  236  are nested within cyclone bin assembly  110 . Nesting at least a portion of the suction hose connector  106  within the cyclone bin assembly  110  may also help reduce the overall length of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 . 
     Optionally, the suction hose connector  106  can serve as an alignment member to help guide the cyclone bin assembly  110  into a desired orientation when bin assembly  110  is remounted on platform  114 . Alternatively, in other embodiments the suction hose connector  106  may be fixedly connected to the cyclone bin assembly  110 , and may be removable with the cyclone bin assembly  110 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , an electrical power connector  244  is provided adjacent the suction hose connector  106 . The electrical power connector  244  can be configured to receive a mating power coupling and may provide power to a cleaning tool, including, for example a surface cleaning head with a powered rotating brush. 
     Filter Chamber, Seal Plate and Foam Structure 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 4 ,  5 ,  6  and  8 , air exiting the cyclone chamber  162  flows to a suction motor inlet  246  via a filter chamber  248 . The filter chamber  248  is provided downstream from the cyclone air outlet. In the illustrated example, the filter chamber  248  comprises a recessed chamber in the body sidewall  116   a  that is enclosed by an seal plate  250 , that is preferably openable. A sealing gasket  254  or other means of creating an air tight compartment, is preferably provided at the interface between an annular rim  252  of the sidewall  116   a  and the seal plate  250  to help provide an air-tight filter chamber  248 . Preferably, as illustrated, the filter chamber  248  extends over substantially the entire sidewall  116   a  and overlies substantially all of the transverse cross sectional area of cyclone chamber  162 , dirt collection chamber  164  and suction motor  111 . 
     A pre-motor filter  256  is provided in the filter chamber  248  to filter the air before it enters the suction motor inlet. Preferably, as illustrated, the pre-motor filter  256  is sized to cover substantially the entire transverse area of the filter chamber  248 , and overlie substantially all of the transverse cross sectional area of the cyclone chamber  162 , dirt collection chamber  164  and suction motor  111 . Preferably, as illustrated, the pre-motor filter  256  comprises first and second pre-motor filters  256   a ,  256   b . The filter chamber  248  comprises an air inlet chamber  258  on the upstream side  272  of the pre-motor filter  256 , and an air outlet chamber  260  on the opposing downstream side of the pre-motor filter  256 . Air can travel from the air inlet chamber  258  to the air outlet chamber  260  by flowing through the pre-motor filter  256 . 
     Preferably, the upstream side of the pre-motor filter is the outward facing face of the pre-motor filter. Accordingly, the air inlet chamber  258  may be fluidly connected to the vortex finder  182  by an inlet conduit  262  that extends through a first aperture  264  in the pre-motor filter  256 . The air outlet chamber  260  is in fluid communication with the inlet  246  of the suction motor  111 . The pre-motor filter  256  may be supported by a plurality of support ribs  266  extending from the sidewall  116   a  into the air outlet chamber  260 . Cutouts can be provided in the ribs  266  to allow air to circulate within the air outlet chamber  266  and flow toward the suction motor inlet  246 . 
     In the illustrated example, the axle mount  128   a  for supporting the side wheel  120   a  is provided on the main body  12  and accordingly extends through the air filter chamber  248 , a second aperture  268  in the pre-motor filter  256  and through an axle mount aperture  270  in the seal plate  250  ( FIG. 5 ). The axle mount aperture  270  in the seal plate  250  is configured to provide an air-tight seal against the axle mount  128   a . Optionally, a sealing gasket or the like can be provided at the interface between the seal plate  250  and the axle mount  128   a . In this configuration the pre-motor filter  256  surrounds the axle mount  128   a.    
     In the illustrated example, the seal plate  250  is removable, when the side wheel  120   a  is moved to an open position or detached, to allow a user to access the pre-motor filter  256 . Alternatively, instead of being removable, the seal plate  250  can be movably attached to the body  112 , for example pivotally connected to the sidewall  116   a , such that the seal plate  250  can be opened without being completely detached from the body  112 . 
     Preferably, the seal plate  250  is transparent, or at least partially transparent. Providing a transparent seal plate  250  may help facilitate visual inspection of the upstream side  272  of the pre-motor filter  256  while the seal plate  250  is in place. When the seal plate  250  is removed, the pre-motor filter  256  may be removed, for example for cleaning or replacement. 
     Openable Suction Motor Housing 
     Referring to  FIG. 6 , optionally a portion of the suction motor housing  210  can be removably connected to the body  112 . Preferably, the removable portion  274  of the suction motor housing  210  comprises the suction motor air inlet  246 . More preferably, the removable portion  274  of the suction motor housing is large enough to allow access to and/or removal of the suction motor  111  from the body  112 . In the illustrated example, the removable portion  274  of the suction motor housing  210 , and optionally the suction motor  111 , are accessible through the air filter chamber  248  and can be accessed when the seal plate  250  and pre-motor filter  256  are removed. Removable portion  274  may comprise an air intake grill and may be secured to the main body  12  by any means, such as screws or the like. 
     Bleed Valve 
     A bleed valve  276  is optionally provided to supply clean air to the suction motor inlet. In the illustrated example a bleed valve air outlet  278  is in fluid communication with the air outlet chamber  260  and can introduce clean air into the air outlet chamber  260  downstream from the pre-motor filter  256 . Air introduced by the bleed valve  276  can flow through the optional cutouts in the supporting ribs  266 , as described above. The bleed valve  276  may be a pressure sensitive valve that is opened when there is a blockage in the air flow path upstream from the suction motor  111 . In the illustrated example, the bleed valve  276  is parallel with the suction motor  111 . A bleed valve inlet  280  is provided toward the front of the body  112 . 
     Filter Window in the Side Wheel 
     Preferably, the side wheel  120   a  covering the seal plate  250  includes at least one transparent region  282 . Providing a transparent region  282  in the side wheel  120   a  may allow a user to visually inspect the upstream side  272  pre-motor filter  256  while the side wheel  120   a  is in place. In the illustrated example, the side wheel  120   a  includes a transparent window  282 . The transparent window  282  can be sized so that a user can view a desired amount of the pre-motor filter  256  through the window. In the illustrated example, the window  282  is oriented in a generally radial orientation, and extends from the hub  132   a  to the peripheral edge of the side wheel  120   a . Providing a radially oriented window  282  may allow a user to inspect a relatively large portion of the surface of the pre-motor filter  256  when the side wheel  120   a  is rotated relative to the body  112 . Alternatively, instead of being configured in a radial orientation, the window  282  can be configured in an annular configuration (optionally concentrically aligned with the side wheel  120   a ) or other suitable configuration. Optionally, the side wheel  120   a  can include more than one window  282 . 
     It will be appreciated that a filter chamber  248  may be provided alternately, or in addition, for a post motor filter. 
     Post Motor Filter Housing 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6 and 10 , from the suction motor inlet  246 , the air is drawn through the suction motor  111  and ejected via a suction motor outlet  284  and into a post-motor filter chamber  286 , within the post-motor filter housing  160 . The post-motor filter chamber  248  contains an air inlet chamber  288  and an optional post-motor filter  290 , including, for example a HEPA filter. In the illustrated example, the post-motor filter chamber  286  also comprises the clean air outlet  104 , on the downstream side of the post-motor filter  290 . A grill  292  can be used to cover the clear air outlet  104 . 
     The post-motor filter chamber  286  can extend into the body  112  of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 . In the illustrated example, a portion of post-motor filter chamber  286  is positioned transversely between the body sidewalls  116   a ,  116   b  and the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b . Preferably, at least a portion of the post-motor filter  290  is positioned between the sidewalls  116   a ,  116   b  and within the diameter  126  of the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b . Configuring the post-motor filter chamber  286  to extend between the sidewalls  116   a ,  116   b  and inside the diameter  126  of side wheels  120   a ,  120   b  may help reduce the overall length of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 , as opposed to providing the entirety of the post-motor filter chamber  286  outside the diameter  126  of the side wheels  120   a ,  120   b.    
     In the example illustrated, an exposed upper wall  294  of the post-motor filter housing  160  has a smaller surface area than the opposing lower wall  296 . Preferably, the lower wall  296  or the end wall  300  may be openable to allow access to the post-motor filter  290 , for example for inspection and replacement. In the illustrated example, the lower wall  296  is detachable from the post-motor filter housing sidewall  298  to allow access to the post-motor filter  290 . A sealing gasket can be provided at the interface between the lower wall and the sidewall to help seal the post-motor filter chamber  248 . Providing a removable lower wall  296  or end wall  300  may help facilitate removal of a post-motor filter  290  that has a larger area than the exposed upper wall  294 , particularly if the post-motor filter  290  is rigid (for example a HEPA filter cartridge). Optionally, instead of being removable, the lower wall  296  can include an openable door to allow access to the post-motor filter  290 . Alternatively, the upper wall  194 , sidewall  298  and/or end wall  300  of the post-motor filter housing can be openable to allow access to the post-motor filter  290 . 
     In the example illustrated, the post-motor filter housing  160  is positioned at the rear of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 . Alternatively, the post-motor filter housing  160  can be positioned toward the front of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 , or at another suitable location on the body  112 . 
     Cord Wind Spool 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7-10 , optionally, the surface cleaning apparatus  100  can comprise an internal electrical cord winding apparatus. In the illustrated example, the electrical cord winding apparatus is preferably a powered cord winder apparatus that includes a cord wrap spool  302  and a cord wrap motor  304 . An electrical cord that is wrapped around the spool  302  can be drawn through a cord aperture  306  in the body  112  ( FIG. 10 ). Optionally, the cord aperture  306  can include rollers or other guide members to help guide the cord through the aperture  306 . 
     In the example illustrated, the cord wrap spool  302  is rotatably received in a cord wrap chamber  308  ( FIG. 7   a ). In the example illustrated the cord wrap chamber  308  comprises a recess in the sidewall  116   b . Optionally, a cover plate  310  can be connected to the sidewall  116   b  to enclose the cord wrap chamber  308 , and contain the cord wrap spool  302 . The cover plate  310  may be openable, and is preferably removable to allow a user to access the cord wrap chamber  308 . 
     In the illustrated example, the cord wrap spool  302  is rotatable about axle mount  128   b , and has a spool axis of rotation  312  that is coincident with the primary axis of rotation  130 . The cord wrap spool  302  comprises a mounting collar  314  that is non-rotatably connected to the axle mount  128   b . Referring to  FIG. 9 , an inward bearing surface  316  on the spool  302  is slidably supported on a complementary collar bearing surface  318  to allow rotation of the spool  302  relative to the body  112 . Alternatively, a roller bearing, ball bearing or other type of bearing apparatus can be provided between the spool  302  and the axle mount  128   b.    
     Operation of the cord wrap motor  304  can be controlled by an onboard controller  320  that is triggered by a cord wrap switch  322  (see also  FIG. 6 ). Power for the cord wrap motor  304  can be provided by an onboard power source  324 . Providing an onboard power source  324  enables the cord wrap spool  302  to be driven to wind the electrical cord even after the electrical cord has been unplugged from the wall socket. The onboard power source  324  can be any type of portable power source, including, for example, one or more batteries contained in a battery compartment  326 . Optionally, the batteries can be rechargeable and may be recharged when the electrical cord is plugged in. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7 and 8 , the controller  320  and onboard power source  324  are located in an accessory chamber  328  defined between the outer surface of the cover plate  310  and the side wheel  120   b . In the example illustrated, the controller  320  and onboard power source  324  are connected to the outer surface of the cover plate  210 . 
     Referring also to  FIG. 9 , the cord wrap spool  302  comprises an inner flange  330  and an outer flange  332  to help retain the electrical cord wrapped on the spool  302 . The inner surfaces of the flanges  330 ,  332  are separated by a spool width  334 . Preferably, the spool width  334  is selected so that it is not an even multiple of the diameter of the electrical cord, for example a standard 4.5 millimeter diameter electrical cord that is to be wrapped on the spool  302 . Selecting a spool width  334  that is not an even multiple of the electrical cord diameter, for example setting the spool width to approximately 12 millimeters, may help reduce binding or jamming of the electrical cord as it is wound, or unwound from the spool  302 . Preferably, the spool width is between 10% and 90% of the length of the number of widths of the electrical cord that may fit across the spool, and preferably between 20 and 80%. 
     In the example illustrated, the peripheral edge of the inner flange  330  comprises a plurality of gear teeth  336 . The teeth  336  on the perimeter of the inner flange  330  are configured to mesh with the teeth on a drive sprocket  338  that is coupled to the cord wrap motor  304 . In this configuration, rotation of the sprocket  338  of the cord wrap motor  304  can cause rotation of the spool  302 . Alternatively, instead of integrating gear teeth on the inner flange  330 , the spool  302  can be connected to the cord wrap motor  304  using another drive train apparatus, including, for example, a belt drive and a gear train. 
     Optionally, the cord wrap motor  304  can include a clutch or other disengagement member to decouple the rotation of the spool  302  and the motor when desired, for example when the electrical cord is being unwound from the spool  302 . Alternatively, the cord wrap motor  304  can remain drivingly connected to the spool  302  and may be driven in reverse when a user pulls the cord from the spool  302 . In this configuration, the controller  320  can include a protection module to help prevent electrical current generated by the rotating motor from damaging or overloading the controller  320 . 
     The cord wrap switch  322  can be any type of electrical switch, or other type of actuator, accessible to the user of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 . In the example illustrated, the cord wrap switch comprises a cord wrap pedal  322  that is electrically connected to the controller  320 . The cord wrap pedal  322  is preferably pivotally mounted to the rear end of the post-motor filter housing  160 , and can pivot between an “off” position and an “on” position. When the cord wrap pedal  322  is pivoted to the on position, the cord wrap motor  304  is activated and the electrical cord can be wound around the spool  302 . 
     Preferably, the cord wrap pedal  322  is biased toward the off position. Biasing the pedal  322  toward the off position may help prevent the cord wrap switch being inadvertently activated when the surface cleaning apparatus  100  is in use. 
     Alternatively, instead of a foot-actuated pedal  322 , the cord wrap switch can be a button, lever or other type of actuator. Optionally, the cord wrap switch can be configured to be engaged by the hands of a user, instead or, or in addition to, being configured to engage a user&#39;s foot. 
     Optionally, the controller  320  can be configured to operate the cord wrap motor  304  at a generally constant wrap speed. The wrap speed can be selected so that the velocity of the tip of the electrical cord is maintained below a predetermined threshold as the cord is wrapped around the spool  302 . For example, the cord wrap motor  304  can be configured to rotate at about 100 rpm, which may help limit the velocity at the tip of the cord to between about 5 meters per second and about 0.5 meters per second, and may allow the electrical cord to be wound in between about 5 seconds and about 30 seconds. 
     Optionally, the controller  320  can be configured to disengage or deactivate the cord wrap motor  304  if the cord wrap spool  302  becomes jammed or otherwise stops rotating, even while the cord wrap pedal  322  is depressed. In the example illustrated, the controller  320  is configured to monitor the electrical current drawn by the cord wrap motor  304 . If the spool  302  stops rotating, the sprocket  338  will stop rotating and the current drawn by the cord wrap motor  304  may increase. In response to such a current increase, the controller  320  can reduce or eliminate the power supplied to the cord wrap motor  304 . Reducing the power supplied to a non-rotating motor may help reduce motor burn out. Alternatively, instead of monitoring cord wrap motor current, the controller  320  can be configured to monitor rotation of the spool  302 , comprise an end stop sensor or switch, or monitor other suitable factors to help determine when the spool  302  has stopped rotating. 
     The cord wrap motor  304  can operate continuously while the user depresses the cord wrap pedal  322 . Providing a continuous, sustained wrapping motion may help facilitate the wrapping of relatively long electrical cords, for example cords in excess of 5.5 meters feet, around the spool  302 . In contrast, known spring biased cord winding spools may not be able to provide the sustained wrapping motion to wrap long cords. 
     Optionally, a manual drive mechanism can be provided to help wind the cord wrap spool  302  if the onboard power source is depleted. For example, a hand crank or other type of manual actuator can be connected to the spool  302  to enable a user to manually wind in the electrical cord. 
     It will be appreciated that the following claims are not limited to any specific embodiment disclosed herein. Further, it will be appreciated that any one or more of the features disclosed herein may be used in any particular combination or sub-combination, including, without limitation, the cord spool, the protective sidewalls, the cyclone bin assembly lock, an openable or removable wheel to access a component of the surface cleaning apparatus, the positioning and/or configuration of the post motor filter housing, the use of one or more stabilizer wheels, the seal plate, the pre-motor filter window in a wheel, the openable suction motor housing, the wheel axle extending through the filter, The divided dirt collection chamber with the diverter, the asymmetrical orientation of the dirt outlet  180 , the threaded wheels, the passage  220  for the divided dirt collection chamber, the side wheels and positioning an operating component in a sidewall of the main body  112 . 
     What has been described above has been intended to be illustrative of the invention and non-limiting and it will be understood by persons skilled in the art that other variants and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims appended hereto.