Patent Publication Number: US-9901229-B2

Title: All in the head surface cleaning apparatus

Description:
FIELD 
     The present subject matter of the teachings described herein relates generally to an all in the head type surface cleaning apparatus. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Various types of surface cleaning apparatus are known. These include upright surface cleaning apparatus, canister surface cleaning apparatus, stick surface cleaning apparatus and central vacuum systems. Typically, a surface cleaning apparatus has a surface cleaning head with an inlet. For example, an upright surface cleaning apparatus typically comprises an upright section containing at least an air treatment member that is pivotally mounted to a surface cleaning head. A canister surface cleaning apparatus typically comprises a canister body containing at least an air treatment member and a suction motor that is connected to a surface cleaning head by a flexible hose and a handle. Such designs are advantageous as they permit some of the operating components, and optionally all of the operating components (i.e., the suction motor and the air treatment members) to be placed at a location other than the surface cleaning head. This enables the surface cleaning head to be lighter and smaller. Reducing the weight of the surface cleaning head may increase its maneuverability. Also, reducing the height of the surface cleaning head enables the surface cleaning head to clean under furniture having a lower ground clearance. 
     Another type of surface cleaning apparatus is the all in the head surface cleaning apparatus. An all in the head surface cleaning apparatus typically has the suction motor and the air treatment members (e.g., one or more cyclones) to be positioned in the surface cleaning head. However, for various reasons, the all in the head vacuum cleaner has not been widely accepted by consumers. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,699,586; U.S. Pat. No. 6,012,200; U.S. Pat. No. 6,442,792; U.S. Pat. No. 7,013,528; US 2004/0134026; US 2006/0156509; and, US 2009/0056060 disclose an all in the head vacuum cleaner wherein the surface cleaning head is wedge shaped (i.e., the height of the surface cleaning head increases from the front end to the rear end). Accordingly, the height at the rear end limits the extent to which the surface cleaning head may travel under furniture. If the height is too tall, then only the front portion of the surface cleaning head may be able to be placed under furniture, thereby limiting the ability of the surface cleaning apparatus to clean under furniture. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,909,755 discloses an all in the head vacuum cleaner. However, this design has limited filtration ability. As set out in the abstract, the design uses a suction motor to draw in air having entrained particulate matter through a filter to thereby treat the air. Accordingly, while the design is not wedge shaped, it relies upon a filter to treat the air. 
     SUMMARY 
     This summary is intended to introduce the reader to the more detailed description that follows and not to limit or define any claimed or as yet unclaimed invention. One or more inventions may reside in any combination or sub-combination of the elements or process steps disclosed in any part of this document including its claims and figures. 
     In accordance with another aspect of this disclosure, an all in the head surface cleaning apparatus is provided which incorporates cyclonic air treatment in a compact format. The all in the head surface cleaning apparatus may incorporate a bleed valve. If there is a blockage or partial blockage in the air flow path, a bleed vale may admit air to the air flow path. In order to fit under furniture having a low ground clearance, the surface cleaning head may have a limited profile. A bleed valve may increase the profile or footprint of a surface cleaning head. Therefore incorporating a bleed valve without increasing the profile or footprint of a surface cleaning head enables the use of a bleed valve without compromising the ability of a surface cleaning head to extend under furniture. 
     Accordingly, the surface cleaning head may have a height which permits the entire surface cleaning head to extend under furniture. For example, the maximum height of the surface cleaning head may be less than 8 inches, less than 6 inches, less than 5 inches or less than 4.5 inches. At the same time, the surface cleaning head may employ cyclonic air treatment technology and achieve a degree of air treatment comparable to that of leading upright cyclonic vacuum cleaners. Further, the surface cleaning head may have a dirt storage capacity that enables the surface cleaning apparatus to be used to clean an entire residence without a dirt collection chamber having to be emptied. For example, the dirt collection chamber may have a dirt storage capacity of 20, 40, 60 or 80 in 2 . 
     Optionally, if the portable surface cleaning unit includes a cyclone bin assembly, then the cyclone bin assembly may be removably mounted to the surface cleaning apparatus. An advantage of this design is that the user need not carry the surface cleaning apparatus to a garbage bin or the like to empty the cyclone bin assembly. 
     Optionally, the cyclone bin assembly may include a cyclone chamber, a dirt collection chamber external the cyclone chamber and a pre-motor filter chamber housing a pre-motor filter. An advantage of this design is that that pre-motor filter, and its surrounding chamber, can be removed from the surface cleaning apparatus with the cyclone chamber and dirt collection bin for emptying. 
     In accordance with this aspect of the teachings described herein, which may be used in combination with other aspects, there is provided an all in the head surface cleaning apparatus comprising a surface cleaning head having a front end, a rear end, first and second laterally opposed sidewalls and a lower surface having a dirty air inlet. The surface cleaning head may include a brush motor drivingly connected to a movable brushing member. The brush motor may have a brush motor axis. The surface cleaning head may include a cyclone comprising a cyclone chamber. The cyclone chamber may have a longitudinal cyclone axis. The surface cleaning head may include a suction motor having a first end, a second end and a suction motor axis extending between the first and second ends. The surface cleaning head may include a bleed valve having an inlet end, an outlet end and a body extending between the inlet and outlet ends. The body may have a bleed valve axis. The bleed valve axis may be generally parallel to at least one of the cyclone chamber axis, the suction motor axis and the brush motor axis. The apparatus may include an upper portion movably mounted to the surface cleaning head between a storage position and a floor cleaning position. The upper portion may include a drive handle. 
     The bleed valve axis may be generally parallel to at least two of the cyclone chamber axis, the suction motor axis and the brush motor axis. 
     The bleed valve axis may be generally parallel to the cyclone chamber axis, the suction motor axis and the brush motor axis. 
     The bleed valve axis may be generally parallel to the cyclone chamber axis and the suction motor axis. 
     The bleed valve axis may be oriented generally transverse to a forward direction of travel. 
     The bleed valve may be positioned between the suction motor and the brushing member. 
     The bleed valve may be positioned between the brush motor and the brushing member. 
     The bleed valve and the brush motor may be positioned between the suction motor and the brushing member. 
     The brush motor may have an uppermost surface and a lowermost surface and the bleed valve may be positioned between the uppermost and lowermost surfaces. 
     The bleed valve axis may be located between the uppermost and lowermost surfaces. 
     The cyclone may include a dirt collection chamber and the bleed valve may have an end that is opposed to and faces at least a portion of an end of the dirt collection chamber. 
     The dirt collection chamber may be positioned on one lateral side of the surface cleaning head and the bleed valve may be positioned on the other lateral side of the surface cleaning head. 
     The cyclone chamber may have a diameter and the suction motor may have a suction fan having a diameter. The diameter of the cyclone may be within 15% of the diameter of the suction fan. 
     The cyclone may have an air out having a diameter and the suction motor may have an air inlet having a diameter. The diameter of the cyclone air outlet may be within 15% of the diameter of the suction motor air inlet. 
     Air passing through the cyclone air out may travel in a cyclone air outlet direction of travel and air entering the suction motor air inlet may travel in a suction motor inlet direction of travel. The cyclone air outlet direction of travel and the suction motor inlet direction of travel may extend in a common direction. 
     The upper portion may include a first end coupled to the surface cleaning head and a second end spaced apart from the first end. The drive handle may be disposed toward the second end. 
     A mounting hub may extend from the rear side of the surface cleaning head. The upper portion may be movably mounted to the mounting hub and may be rotatably connected to the mounting hub whereby the upper portion is rotatable about a rotation axis relative to the surface cleaning head. 
     The bleed valve may be positioned between the cyclone chamber and a rear wheel axle. 
     The bleed valve may be manually openable by a user. 
     The bleed valve may have a plurality of manually openable positions. 
     In accordance with this aspect of the teachings described herein, which may be usable in combination with other aspects, there is also provided an all in the head surface cleaning apparatus comprising a surface cleaning apparatus having a front end, a rear end, first and second laterally opposed sidewalls and a lower surface having a dirty air inlet. The surface cleaning head may include a cyclone having a cyclone chamber. The cyclone chamber may have a longitudinal cyclone axis. The surface cleaning head may include a suction motor having a first end, a second end and a suction motor axis extending between the first and second ends. The surface cleaning head may include a bleed valve having an inlet end, an outlet end and a body extending between the inlet and outlet ends. The body may have a bleed valve axis. The bleed valve axis may be generally parallel to at least one of the cyclone chamber axis and the suction motor axis. An upper portion may be movably mounted to the surface cleaning head between a storage position and a floor cleaning position. The upper portion may include a drive handle. 
     In accordance with this aspect of the teachings described herein, which may be usable in combination with other aspects, there is also provided an all in the head surface cleaning apparatus comprising a surface cleaning apparatus having a front end, a rear end, first and second laterally opposed sidewalls and a lower surface having a dirty air inlet. The surface cleaning head may include a cyclone having a cyclone chamber. The cyclone chamber may have a longitudinal cyclone axis. The surface cleaning head may include a suction motor having a first end, a second end and a suction motor axis extending between the first and second ends. The surface cleaning head may include a bleed valve having an inlet end, an outlet end and a body extending between the inlet and outlet ends. The body may have a bleed valve axis. The bleed valve may be positioned between the cyclone chamber and a rear wheel axle. An upper portion may be movably mounted to the surface cleaning head between a storage position and a floor cleaning position. The upper portion may include a drive handle. 
     The bleed valve may be positioned between the suction motor and the rear wheel axle. 
     In accordance with another aspect of this disclosure, a surface cleaning apparatus may be provided with a manually openable bleed valve. Therefore, a user may elect to permit bleed air into the surface cleaning apparatus, e.g., to reduce the air flow rate at the dirty air inlet. This may assist when cleaning a rug or other surface that is not secured in place, or when cleaning fringes on a carpet or the like. 
     In accordance with this aspect, there is provided surface cleaning apparatus comprising an air flow path from a dirty air inlet to a clean air outlet; a cyclone chamber and a suction motor positioned in the air flow path; and, a bleed valve manually openable by a user and located downstream of the cyclone chamber and upstream of a suction motor. 
     In some embodiments, the bleed valve may be located downstream of a pre-motor filter and upstream of the suction motor. 
     In accordance with another aspect of this disclosure, an all in the surface cleaning apparatus is provided with a surface cleaning head wherein the cyclone chamber and the suction motor are sized to enable comparable airflows therethrough. For example, the diameter of the cyclone chamber may be within 25%, 20% or 15% of the diameter of the suction fan. Further, the dirt collection chamber may be forward or rearward of the cyclone chamber and may not be above or below the cyclone chamber. An advantage of this design is that the profile of the surface cleaning head may be reduced thereby enabling the surface cleaning head to extend under furniture having a lower ground clearance. 
     In accordance with this aspect of the teachings described herein, which may be usable in combination with other aspects, there is provided an all in the head surface cleaning apparatus comprising a surface cleaning head having a front end, a rear end, first and second laterally opposed sidewalls and a lower surface having a dirty air inlet. The surface cleaning head may include a cyclone having a cyclone chamber. The cyclone may have a longitudinal cyclone axis and a diameter. The surface cleaning head may include a suction motor having a first end, a second end, a suction fan having a diameter and a suction motor axis extending between the first and second ends. The diameter of the cyclone chamber may be within 15% of the diameter of the suction fan. The apparatus may include an upper portion movably mounted to the surface cleaning head between a storage position and a floor cleaning position. The upper portion may include a drive handle. 
     The cyclone may have an air outlet having a diameter and the suction motor has an air inlet having a diameter. The diameter of the cyclone air outlet may be within 15% of the diameter of the suction motor air inlet. 
     The air passing through the cyclone air out may travel in a cyclone air outlet direction of travel and air entering the suction motor air inlet may travel in a suction motor inlet direction of travel. The cyclone air outlet direction of travel and the suction motor inlet direction of travel may extend in a common direction. 
     The cyclone axis may be generally parallel to the suction motor axis. 
    
    
     
       DRAWINGS 
       The drawings included herewith are for illustrating various examples of articles, methods, and apparatuses of the teaching of the present specification and are not intended to limit the scope of what is taught in any way. 
       In the drawings: 
         FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of an example of an all in the head type surface cleaning apparatus; 
         FIG. 2  is a rear perspective view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a front perspective view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1  with an upper portion in a use position; 
         FIG. 4  is left side view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  is right side view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a rear view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a top view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 8  is bottom view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 9  is bottom view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1  with a rotating brush removed; 
         FIG. 10  is cross-sectional view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 , taken along line  10 - 10 ; 
         FIG. 11  is an enlarged view of a portion of  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 12  is cross-sectional view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 , taken along line  12 - 12 , which is shown in  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 13  is cross-sectional view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 , taken along line  13 - 13 , which is shown in  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 14  is cross-sectional view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 , taken along line  14 - 14 , which is shown in  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 15  is cross-sectional view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 , taken along line  15 - 15 , which is shown in  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 16  is cross-sectional view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 , taken along line  16 - 16 , which is shown in  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 17  is cross-sectional view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 , taken along line  17 - 17 , which is shown in  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 18  is cross-sectional view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 , taken along line  18 - 18 , which is shown in  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a partially exploded view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view of an example of a cyclone bin assembly usable with the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 21  is another perspective view of the cyclone bin assembly of  FIG. 20  oriented with the filter chamber at the upper end; 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view of the cyclone bin assembly of  FIG. 21  with a cyclone chamber door open; 
         FIG. 23  is a perspective view of the cyclone bin assembly of  FIG. 21  oriented with the filter chamber at the upper end, with a cyclone chamber door and a filter chamber open; 
         FIG. 24  is a partially exploded view of the cyclone bin assembly of  FIG. 23 ; 
         FIG. 25  is another perspective view of the cyclone bin assembly of  FIG. 20  oriented with the cyclone chamber at the upper end, with the cyclone chamber door open; 
         FIG. 26  is an end view of the cyclone bin assembly of  FIG. 20  in the configuration of  FIG. 25 ; 
         FIG. 27  is a front perspective view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1  with the cyclone bin assembly detached; 
         FIG. 28  is a rear perspective view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1  with the cyclone bin assembly in a removal position; 
         FIG. 29  is a front perspective view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1  with the cyclone bin assembly in a removal position; 
         FIG. 30  is to top view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1  with the cyclone bin assembly in a removal position and with the brush chamber open; 
         FIG. 31  is a front perspective view of the surface cleaning head of  FIG. 1  with the cyclone bin assembly in a removal position; 
         FIG. 32  is a front perspective view of the surface cleaning head of  FIG. 1  with the cyclone bin assembly in a removal position; 
         FIG. 33  is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1  with a lock in locked configuration, taken along line  33 - 33 , which is shown in  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 34  is the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 33  with the lock in an unlocked configuration; 
         FIG. 35  is the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 34 , with the cyclone bin assembly pivoted to a different position; 
         FIG. 36  is a front perspective view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1  with the cyclone bin assembly removed; 
         FIG. 37  is a top view of the portion of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 36 ; 
         FIG. 38  is a partially exploded a front perspective view of the surface cleaning head of  FIG. 1  with the cyclone bin assembly removed; 
         FIG. 39  is a front perspective view of the surface cleaning head of  FIG. 1  with the cyclone bin assembly in a removal position and a cover removed to reveal a bleed valve; 
         FIG. 40  is a top perspective view of the surface cleaning head as shown in  FIG. 39 ; 
         FIG. 41  is a partially exploded front perspective view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 42A  is perspective view of the drive handle of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 42B  is an enlarged view of a portion of the drive handle shown in  FIG. 42A ; 
         FIG. 43  is a rear perspective view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1  with a brush chamber open and the cyclone bin in a removal position; 
         FIG. 44  is a rear perspective view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1  with a drive handle in a retracted position; 
         FIG. 45  is an enlarged rear perspective view the upper portion of the drive handle of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 46  is a front perspective view of another example of an all in the head type surface cleaning apparatus; 
         FIG. 47  is a front perspective view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 46 , with the cyclone bin assembly in a removal position; 
         FIG. 48  is a front perspective view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 46 , with the cyclone bin assembly removed; 
         FIG. 49  is a top perspective view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 46 , with the cyclone bin assembly removed; 
         FIG. 50  is a front perspective view of an example of a cyclone bin assembly with a filter chamber opened; 
         FIG. 51  is a side perspective view of the cyclone bin assembly of  FIG. 50  showing the cyclone chamber in an open position; 
         FIG. 52  is a perspective view of the filter chamber end of the cyclone bin assembly of  FIG. 50 ; 
         FIG. 53  is a side perspective view of the surface cleaning head of  FIG. 46 ; 
         FIG. 54A  is a bottom perspective view of the surface cleaning head of  FIG. 46  with a blocker in a deployed position; 
         FIG. 54B  the a bottom perspective view of the surface cleaning head of  FIG. 54A  with the blocker in a retracted position 
         FIG. 55  is a cross-sectional view of the surface cleaning head of  FIG. 46 , taken along line  55 - 55 , which is shown in  FIG. 53 ; 
         FIG. 56  is a cross-sectional view of the surface cleaning head of  FIG. 46 , taken along line  56 - 56 , which is shown in  FIG. 53 ; 
         FIG. 57  is a cross-sectional view of the surface cleaning head of  FIG. 46 , taken along line  57 - 57 , which is shown in  FIG. 46 ; 
         FIG. 58  is a cross-sectional view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 46 , taken along line  58 - 58 , which is shown in  FIG. 46 ; 
         FIG. 59  is the cross-sectional view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 58 , with a wand extended and a pre-motor filter removed; and 
         FIG. 60  is a cross-sectional view of the surface cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 46 , taken along line  60 - 60 , which is shown in  FIG. 46 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Various apparatuses or processes will be described below to provide an example of an embodiment of each claimed invention. No embodiment described below limits any claimed invention and any claimed invention may cover processes or apparatuses that differ from those described below. The claimed inventions are not limited to apparatuses or processes having all of the features of any one apparatus or process described below or to features common to multiple or all of the apparatuses described below. It is possible that an apparatus or process described below is not an embodiment of any claimed invention. Any invention disclosed in an apparatus or process described below that is not claimed in this document may be the subject matter of another protective instrument, for example, a continuing patent application, and the applicants, inventors or owners do not intend to abandon, disclaim or dedicate to the public any such invention by its disclosure in this document. 
     As exemplified herein, the surface cleaning apparatus is an all in the head vacuum cleaner. It will be appreciated that, in some embodiments, aspects disclosed herein may be used in other surface cleaning apparatus such as extractors or in surface cleaning heads of other vacuum cleaners, such as an upright vacuum cleaner or a canister vacuum cleaner. 
     General Description of an All in the Head Vacuum Cleaner 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-8 , an embodiment of a surface cleaning apparatus is shown. The surface cleaning apparatus includes a surface cleaning head  102  and an upper portion  104  that is movably and drivingly connected to the surface cleaning head  102 . The surface cleaning head  102  may be supported by any suitable support members, such as, for example wheels and/or rollers, to allow the surface cleaning head to be moved across the floor or other surface being cleaned. The support members (e.g., wheels) may be of any suitable configuration, and may be attached to any suitable part of the surface cleaning apparatus, including, for example, the surface cleaning head and upper portion. 
     The surface cleaning apparatus  100  preferably includes a dirty air inlet  110  (see  FIG. 8 ), a clean air outlet  112  (see  FIG. 7 ) and an air flow path or passage extending therebetween. Preferably, at least one suction motor and at least one air treatment member are provided in the air flow path. The air treatment member may be any suitable air treatment member, including, for example, one or more cyclones (arranged in series or in parallel with each other), filters, bags and other dirt separation devices. Preferably, the at least one air treatment member is provided upstream from the suction motor, but alternatively may be provided downstream from the suction motor or both upstream and downstream from the suction motor. In addition to the at least one air treatment member, the surface cleaning apparatus may also include one or more pre-motor filters (preferably positioned in the air flow path between the air treatment member and the suction motor) and/or one or more post-motor filters (positioned in the air flow path between the suction motor and the clean air outlet). 
     Upper portion  104  may be of any design known in the art that is drivingly connected to surface cleaning head  102  so as to permit a user to move surface cleaning head  102  across a surface to be cleaned (such as a floor). Upper portion  104  may be movably (e.g., pivotally) connected to surface cleaning head for movement between an upright storage position as exemplified in  FIG. 1  and an inclined in use position as exemplified in  FIG. 3 . If upper portion  104  is movably connected to surface cleaning head  102  abut only one axis or rotation (e.g., a horizontal axis), then upper portion  104  may be used to move surface cleaning head  102  in a generally forward/backward direction of travel, indicated by arrow  106 . A direction generally orthogonal to the direction of travel, indicated by arrow  108  defines a lateral or transverse direction. In some embodiments, upper portion  104  may be rotatable connected to surface cleaning head  102 , such as by a swivel connection, so as to enable a user to steer the surface cleaning head using the upper section. 
     Upper section may comprise a hand grip portion  444  and a handle or drive shaft  442 . Drive shaft  442  may be telescopic and/or it may be usable as an above floor cleaning wand and/or it may provide electrical cord storage and/or auxiliary cleaning tool storage and/or it may be used to hang the surface cleaning apparatus on a wall when not in use 
     In the embodiment illustrated, the surface cleaning apparatus  100  is an all in the head type vacuum cleaner in which the functional or operational components for the transport and treatment of fluid (e.g., air) entering the dirty air inlet of the vacuum cleaner (such as, for example, the suction motor, air treatment member, filters, motors, etc.) are all contained within the surface cleaning head  102  portion of surface cleaning apparatus  100 . Providing the functional air flow components within the surface cleaning head may help reduce the size and/or weight of the upper portion. Providing the functional components within the surface cleaning head may also help lower the centre of gravity of the surface cleaning apparatus. Accordingly, the hand weight experienced by a user operating surface cleaning apparatus  100  is reduced. 
     In some embodiments, the surface cleaning head may also be configured to accommodate functional components that do not form part of the air flow path, such as, for example, brush motors, brushes, on board energy storage systems, controllers and other components. 
     Alternatively, while being free from air flow components, the upper section may include some components, such as, for example, height adjustment mechanisms, electrical cord connections, electrical cord storage members, handle, actuators, steering components and other functional, on board energy storage systems, but non-airflow related components of the surface cleaning apparatus. 
     Referring to  FIG. 13 , in the illustrated example, the surface cleaning head includes a front end  114  having a front face  116 , a rear end  118  spaced rearwardly from the front end and having a rear face  120  and a pair of side faces  124  that are laterally spaced apart from each other and extend from the front face  116  to the rear face  120 . Referring to  FIGS. 8 and 9 , the surface cleaning head  102  also has a bottom face  126  that is extends between the front end  114 , rear end  118  and side faces  124 . The bottom face  126  is positioned to face the surface being cleaned when the surface cleaning apparatus  100  is in use. 
     Referring to  FIG. 7 , a top face  128  generally is spaced apart from and overlies the bottom face  126  ( FIG. 8 ). Together, the front face  116 , rear face  120 , side faces  124 , bottom face  126  and top face  128  co-operate to bound an interior of the surface cleaning head  102 , which, in the illustrated example, is configured to house the functional components of the air flow path of the surface cleaning apparatus. Preferably, in an all in the head type vacuum cleaner, the surface cleaning head includes the dirty air inlet  110  and the clean air outlet  112 . The surface cleaning apparatus  100  has an overall depth  341 , measured in the forward/backward direction. The overall depth  341  may be any suitable depth that is sufficient to accommodate the components of the surface cleaning apparatus, and may be less than about 20 inches, less than about 15 inches, less than about 10 inches, less than about 9 inches, less than about 8.5 inches, and optionally less than about 8 inches. 
     In the exemplified embodiment, surface cleaning head  102  has a generally rectangular footprint when viewed from above. It will be appreciated that front, rear and sides faces need not extend linearly and that surface cleaning head may be of various shapes. 
     As exemplified in  FIGS. 8 and 9 , the surface cleaning head  102  may include a brush chamber  130  that is configured to house a rotatable agitator brush  132 . The brush  132  is shown within the brush chamber  130  in  FIG. 8 , and the brush chamber  130  is illustrated with the brush  132  removed in  FIG. 9 . The rotatable brush  132  may be rotatable about a brush axis  134  that may be generally orthogonal to the direction of travel  106  of the surface cleaning head  102 . Alternately, or in addition, it will be appreciated that any other agitation or cleaning member known in the art may be used in place of, or in addition to, rotatable brush  132 . Further, rotatable brush  132  may be any rotatable brush known in the art and may be driven by any drive means known in the art, such as a fan belt, direct drive, providing the brush motor internal of rotatable brush  132 , an air driven turbine or the like. 
     As exemplified in the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 17 , the brush chamber  130  may include a front wall  136 , a rear wall  138 , two sidewalls  140  ( FIG. 9 ) and a top wall  142 . The brush chamber  130  may be located at the front  114  of the surface cleaning head  102 , and, as in the illustrated embodiment, an outer surface of the front wall  136  of the brush chamber  130  may form at least a portion of the front face  116  of the surface cleaning head  102 . 
     As exemplified, the bottom side of the brush chamber  130  is at least partially open and forms the dirty air inlet  110  of the surface cleaning apparatus  102 . The open, bottom side of the brush chamber  130  is, in the example illustrated, bounded by a front edge  144 , a rear edge  146  spaced behind the front edge  144 , and a pair of side edges  148  extending therebetween. In the illustrated example the open bottom side of the brush chamber  130  is generally rectangular in shape, but alternatively could be configured in other shapes. 
     As exemplified, the brush chamber  130  may extend from the bottom face  126  to the top face  128  of the surface cleaning head  102 , so that an outer surface of the top wall  142  of the brush chamber  130  forms part of the top face  128  of the surface cleaning head  102 , and the open, bottom side of the brush chamber  130  forms part of the bottom face  126  of the surface cleaning head  102 . 
     As exemplified in  FIG. 7 , the clean air outlet  112  may be provided on the upward facing, top face  128  of the surface cleaning head  102  and may be covered by a grill  150 . Preferably, the grill  150  is removable (as shown in  FIG. 19 ) to allow access to the clean air outlet  112 . An advantage of this design is that treated air is directed away from the surface to be cleaned and away from a user (who is standing behind upper portion  104 ). Alternately clean air outlet  112  may direct treated air rearwardly. 
     Optionally a post-motor filter  152  may be provided upstream of the suction motor, such as at the clear air outlet  112 , to filter air that has passed through the air treatment member and suction motor. As exemplified in  FIG. 19 , the filter  152  may be provided as a generally planar post-motor filter  152  made from foam and/or felt that is positioned beneath the grill  150 . Removing the grill  150  provides access to the post-motor filter  152  for inspection and/or replacement. Optionally, instead of, or in addition to the felt filter  152 , the post-motor filter may include one or more other filters or filtering media, including, for example, a HEPA filter, an electrostatic filter, a cyclonic post-motor filter or other suitable filter. 
     It will be appreciated that the forgoing is a general description of an all in the head vacuum cleaner. It will be appreciated that the actual size and shape of the surface cleaning head may depend upon which of the following aspects are included in the product design. 
     Removable Dirt Collection Chamber 
     The following is a description of a removable dirt collection chamber that may be used by itself in any surface cleaning apparatus or in any combination or sub-combination with any other feature or features disclosed herein. Optionally, the dirt collection chamber is removable as a sealed unit for emptying. An advantage of this design is that collected dirt will be contained within the dirt collection chamber as the dirt collection chamber is transported to a location, such as a garbage can, for emptying. Optionally, the dirt collection chamber may be part of a cyclone bin assembly and the cyclone bin assembly may be removable, preferably as a sealed unit. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 12 and 13 , which are cross-sectional views of the surface cleaning head  102 , the surface cleaning head  102  includes an air treatment member in the form of a cyclone bin assembly  160  (see also  FIGS. 1 and 20 ) positioned in the air flow path downstream from the dirty air inlet  110  and the brush chamber  130 , and a suction motor  162  positioned downstream from the cyclone bin assembly  160 . Preferably, the cyclone bin assembly  160  is detachable from the surface cleaning head  102 . Referring to  FIG. 20 , the cyclone bin assembly  160  is illustrated in isolation, removed from the surface cleaning head  102 . Referring to  FIG. 27 , the surface cleaning apparatus  100  is illustrated with the cyclone bin assembly  160  detached from the surface cleaning head  102 . Providing a detachable cyclone bin assembly  160  may allow a user to carry the cyclone bin assembly  160  to a garbage can for emptying, without needing to carry or move the rest of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 . 
     In the illustrated example, the surface cleaning head  102  includes a cavity  161  for releasably receiving the cyclone bin assembly  160 . The cavity  161  is sized to receive at least a portion of the cyclone bin assembly  160  and, in the example illustrated, has a generally open top. This can allow portions of the cyclone bin assembly  160  to remain visible when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is mounted in the cavity  161 . This can also allow a user to access the cyclone bin assembly  160  without having to open or remove a separate cover panel or lid. The absence of a cover panel may help reduce the overall weight of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 , and may simplify the cyclone bin assembly  160  removal process. Optional cavity  161  designs and cyclone bin assembly removal processes are described in greater detail separately herein. 
     As exemplified in  FIG. 7 , when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is mounted to the surface cleaning head  102  a portion of the cyclone sidewall may form an upper surface of the cyclone bin assembly. Accordingly, the upper surface of the cyclone bin assembly remains exposed when attached to the surface cleaning head (there is no separate cover member, etc.) and the profile and curvature of the cyclone bin assembly defines the profile of a portion of the top face of the surface cleaning head. This profile may be selected so that it generally conforms to the shape of the suction motor housing, sidewalls and/or other portions of the surface cleaning head. 
     The handle or handles that are used to carry the dirt collection chamber (e.g., the cyclone bin assembly handle) preferably does not extend beyond an outer wall of the surface cleaning head. Accordingly, the top surface of the surface cleaning head defines a maximum height of the surface cleaning head. If the handle were to extend upwardly, it could limit the extent to which the surface cleaning head could extend under furniture. As exemplified in  FIGS. 1 and 46 , the handle or handles for the cyclone bin assembly are received in a recess in the upper surface of the surface cleaning head such that the handles are mounted flush with the upper surface. It will be appreciated that the handles could be recessed inwardly when the cyclone bin assembly is in an in use position. Accordingly, the handle or handles may be usable once the cyclone bin assembly has been moved to a cyclone assembly removal position as exemplified in  FIGS. 29 and 47 . 
     It will be appreciated that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may not use any of the features of the dirt collection chamber disclosed herein and that, in those embodiments, the dirt collection chamber may be of various constructions and that in those embodiments any dirt collection chamber known in the art may be used. 
     Cyclone Bin Assembly 
     The following is a description of a cyclone bin assembly having various features, any or all of which may be used (individually or in any combination or sub-combination) in any surface cleaning apparatus or in any combination or sub-combination with any other feature or features disclosed herein. 
     Referring also to  FIG. 25 , in the illustrated example, the cyclone bin assembly  160  includes a cyclone chamber  164  and a dirt collection chamber  166 . In the illustrated example, the dirt collection chamber  166  is external the cyclone chamber  164 . In accordance with one feature of the cyclone bin assembly, dirt collection chamber  166  may be positioned forward and/or rearward of the cyclone chamber  164  and not on top of or below cyclone chamber  164 . An advantage of this design is that by not positioning the dirt collection chamber above or below the cyclone chamber (or by reducing the height of the portion of the dirt collection chamber above or below the cyclone chamber) the height of the surface cleaning head  102  may be reduced without reducing the diameter of cyclone chamber  164  and/or the diameter of the cyclone chamber may be increased (thereby increasing the air flow rate through the vacuum cleaner) without increasing the height of the surface cleaning head. 
     In the illustrated example, the cyclone chamber  164  has a first cyclone end  168 , with a first end wall  169 , and a second cyclone end  170 , with a second end wall  171 . A generally cylindrical cyclone sidewall  173  extends between the first end wall  169  and the second end wall  171 , spaced apart from each other by cyclone length  172  ( FIG. 12 ) along a cyclone axis  174 , about which air circulates. Referring also to  FIG. 14 , the cyclone chamber  164  also includes a cyclone air inlet  184 , a cyclone air outlet  186  and a dirt outlet  188 . 
     In accordance with another feature of the cyclone bin assembly, the air flow path from the brush chamber to the cyclone chamber may be constructed without any 90 degree bends. Reducing the number and degree of bends reduces the back pressure through the vacuum cleaner and thereby reduces the size of the suction motor (all other factors remaining the same) or increases the air flow rate through the vacuum cleaner if the size of the suction motor remains constant (all other factors remaining the same). For example, as exemplified in  FIG. 16 , the cyclone air inlet  184  may include an upstream or inlet end  190  that is connectable to a brush chamber air outlet  192  that may be provided in the rear wall  138  of the brush chamber  130 . The cyclone air inlet  184  may also include a downstream end  194  that includes an opening formed in the cyclone sidewall  173 , and a connecting portion  196  extending through the dirt collection chamber  166  between the upstream and downstream ends  190  and  194 . The air flow connection between the brush chamber outlet  192  and the cyclone chamber  164  may form a first air flow path, which is a portion of the overall air flow path connecting the dirty air inlet  110  to the clean air outlet  112 . Optionally, as exemplified, the first air flow path may be configured so that it is free from sharp corners and bends, so that the largest change of direction in the flow direction of the air flowing through the first air flow path is less than 90 degrees, and optionally may be less than about 70 degrees, less than about 60 degrees, less than about 45 degrees, less than 30 degrees and may be less than 15 degrees. In some embodiments, the largest change of direction in the flow direction of the air flowing through the first air flow path may be less than 5 degrees, and optionally, the first air flow path may be essentially linear. 
     Referring to  FIG. 16 , in the illustrated example, the connecting portion  196  extends along an inlet axis  198  which, in the example illustrated, is generally linear and extends generally in the forward/backward direction. In the illustrated example the first flow path is generally free from bends/corners and is essentially linear along its entire length (with the exception of minor variations in the wall diameter), from the opening  192  in the brush chamber rear wall  138  to the tangentially oriented opening  194  in the cyclone chamber sidewall  173 . Providing a linear first air flow path may help reduce air flow losses as air flows through the first flow path. In addition, the first flow path is relatively short and provides a generally direct air flow path from the brush chamber  130  to the cyclone chamber  164 . Providing a relatively short, direct air flow path may help reduce the likelihood of the air flow path becoming clogged by debris or otherwise blocked. 
     The cyclone air inlet  184  may be provided at any desired location on the cyclone chamber  164 , and in the illustrated example is provided toward a bottom side of the cyclone chamber  164 , below a horizontal plane  200  containing the cyclone axis  174 . In this configuration, the inlet axis  198  intersects the cyclone chamber  164 , the brush chamber  130  and the rotating brush  132 . 
     In the illustrated example, the inlet end  190  of the cyclone air inlet  184  is integrally formed with the cyclone bin assembly  160 . In this configuration, the inlet end  190  of the cyclone air inlet can be disconnected from the air outlet  192  of the brush chamber  130  and removed from the surface cleaning head with the cyclone bin assembly  160 . 
     In accordance with another feature of the cyclone bin assembly, the inlet end  190  of the cyclone air inlet  184  and the air outlet  192  of the brush chamber  130  may be configured to meet each other in sealing plane  202  that is at an angle to the vertical. It will be appreciated that the surface cleaning apparatus  100  can be configured so that the sealing plane is vertical, horizontal or is at an angle relative to a vertical plane. In the illustrated example, the sealing plane  202  between the inlet end  190  of the cyclone air inlet  184  and the air outlet  192  of the brush chamber  130  is inclined forwardly and is aligned at an angle  204  relative to the vertical direction. This may help facilitate alignment and mating of the inlet end  190  of the cyclone air inlet  184  and the air outlet  192  of the brush chamber  130  when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is placed onto the surface cleaning head  102 . It will be appreciated that one or both of the inlet end  190  and the air outlet  192  may be provided with a gasket, O-ring or the like. 
     A cross-sectional area of the air inlet  184  taken in a plane orthogonal to the inlet axis  198  can be referred to as the cross-sectional area or flow area of the air inlet  184 . The cross-sectional shape of the air inlet  184  can be any suitable shape. In the illustrated example the air inlet  184  has a generally round or circular cross-sectional shape with a diameter  206 . Optionally, the diameter  206  may be between about 0.25 inches and about 5 inches or more, preferably between about 1 inch and about 5 inches, more preferably is between about 0.75 and 2 inches or between about 1.5 inches and about 3 inches, and most preferably is about 2 to 2.5 inches or between about 1 to 1.5 inches. Alternatively, instead of being circular, the cross-sectional shape of the air inlet may be another shape, including, for example, oval, square and rectangle. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , in the illustrated example, the cyclone air outlet  186  includes a vortex finder portion  208  in communication with an aperture  210  (see also  FIG. 23 ) that is generally centrally located on the second end wall  172  of the cyclone chamber  164 . A cross-sectional area of the aperture  210  taken in a plane orthogonal to the cyclone axis  174  can be referred to as a cross-sectional area or flow area of the cyclone air outlet  186 . The perimeter of vortex finder portion  208  defines a cross-sectional shape of the air outlet. The cross-sectional shape of the air outlet can be any suitable shape. In the illustrated example the air outlet has a generally round or circular cross-sectional shape with a diameter  212 . Optionally, the diameter  212  may be between about 0.25 inches and about 5 inches or more, preferably between about 1 inch and about 5 inches, more preferably is between about 0.75 and 2 inches or between about 1.5 inches and about 3 inches, and most preferably is about 2 to 2.5 inches or between about 1 to 1.5 inches. Alternatively, instead of being circular, the cross-sectional shape of the air inlet may be another shape, including, for example, oval, square and rectangle. 
     In accordance with another feature of the cyclone bin assembly, the cross sectional area of the cyclone air inlet  184  and the cyclone air outlet  186  may be selected to reduce back pressure through the vacuum cleaner. Accordingly, the cross-sectional or flow area of the cyclone air outlet  186  may be between about 50% and about 150% and between about 60%-120% and about 90%-110% of the cross-sectional area of the cyclone air inlet  184 , and preferably is generally equal to the area of cyclone air inlet  184 . In this configuration, the air outlet diameter  212  may be about the same as the air inlet diameter  206  ( FIG. 16 ). 
     The dirt collection chamber may be of any suitable configuration. Preferably, as exemplified in  FIG. 12 , the dirt collection chamber  166  is exterior to cyclone chamber  164 , and preferably includes a first end wall  240 , a second end wall  242  and the sidewall  244  extending therebetween. Referring also to  FIG. 25 , in the illustrated example, the sidewall  244  partially laterally surrounds the cyclone chamber  164 . At least partially positioning the dirt collection chamber  166  forward or rearward of the cyclone chamber  164  may help reduce the overall height of the surface cleaning head. As illustrated in the present example, the cyclone chamber sidewall  173  may be coincident with the sidewall  244  at one or more locations around its perimeter. Optionally, portions of the dirt chamber sidewall  244  can form portions of the outer or exposed surface of the surface cleaning apparatus  100  when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is mounted in the cavity  161 . 
     In the illustrated example, a majority of the dirt collection chamber  166  is located in front of (i.e. forward of) the cyclone chamber  164  in the direction of travel of the surface cleaning head  102 , between the cyclone chamber  164  and the brush chamber  130 . In some configurations, the rear portions of the cyclone sidewall  173  and dirt collection chamber sidewall  244  may be coincident, and the front portion of the cyclone sidewall  173  may be spaced apart from the front portion of the dirt collection chamber sidewall  244 . Locating the cyclone chamber  164  toward the back of the cyclone bin assembly  160  may help align the cyclone air outlet  186  with the air inlet  246  ( FIGS. 13 and 30 ) of the suction motor  162 . Locating the dirt collection chamber  166  forward of the cyclone chamber  164  may help make the dirt collection chamber  166  more easily viewable by a user (particularly if some or all of the dirt collection chamber sidewall  244  is transparent and there is no lid or the lid is transparent), which may allow a user to inspect the condition of the dirt collection chamber  166  without having to remove the cyclone bin assembly  160  from the cavity  161 . 
     In the illustrated example, the dirt collection chamber  166  is located solely in front of the cyclone chamber  164  and does not extend above or below the cyclone chamber (as viewed when the cyclone bin assembly is mounted to the surface cleaning head in  FIG. 16 ). It will be appreciated that small portions of the dirt collection chamber may be positioned above or below the cyclone chamber without significantly deviating from the advantage of this feature. In this configuration, the overall height  248  of the cyclone bin assembly  160  (measured in a vertical direction when the cyclone bin assembly is mounted to the surface cleaning head) is generally equal to the outer diameter of the cyclone chamber  164  (i.e. including the wall thicknesses), while the overall width  250  ( FIG. 12 ) of the cyclone bin assembly  160  (measured in the front/back direction when the cyclone bin assembly is mounted to the surface cleaning head) is greater than the cyclone diameter. Providing the dirt collection chamber  166  only in front of the cyclone chamber  164  may help reduce the overall height  248  of the cyclone bin assembly  160  while still providing a dirt collection chamber  166  with a practical internal storage volume. Reducing the overall height  248  of the cyclone bin assembly  160  may help reduce the overall height  339  ( FIG. 6 ) of the surface cleaning head  102  when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is in the cavity  161 . Preferably, the overall height  339  of the surface cleaning head  102  is less than about 15 inches, and may be less than about 10 inches, less than about 8 inches, less than about 6 inches, less than about 5 inches, less than about 4.5 inches and optionally less than 4 inches. In the illustrated example, the overall height  339  is about 4.5 inches. 
     Alternatively, the cyclone bin assembly may be configured so that the dirt collection chamber is located entirely behind the cyclone chamber (i.e. between the cyclone chamber and the rear face of the surface cleaning head), or is located partially in front of and partially behind the cyclone chamber and so that the dirt collection chamber extends partially or entirely above and/or below the cyclone chamber. 
     Cyclone chamber  164  may be in communication with a dirt collection chamber  166  by any suitable cyclone dirt outlet known in the art. Preferably the cyclone chamber includes at least one dirt outlet in communication with the dirt chamber that is external the cyclone chamber. Referring to  FIGS. 14 and 25 , in accordance with another feature of the cyclone bin assembly, the cyclone dirt outlet  188  may be in the form of a slot  252  bounded by the cyclone side wall  173  and the cyclone end wall  169 , and is located toward the first end  168  of the cyclone chamber  164 . Alternatively, in other embodiments, the dirt outlet may be of any other suitable configuration, and may be provided at another location in the cyclone chamber, including, for example as an annular gap between the sidewall and an end wall of the cyclone chamber or an arrestor plate or other suitable member. 
     Referring to  FIG. 25 , the slot  252  may be of any suitable height  254  (measured in the direction of the cyclone axis) and may have any suitable angular extent  256  ( FIG. 26 ). In the illustrated example, the height  254  may remain generally constant along the extent of the slot  252 , and may be between about 0.25 cm and about 15 cm, and preferably is between about 0.75 cm and about 5 cm, and more preferably is about 1 cm. The cyclone chamber height  174  may be any suitable height, including between about 5 cm and about 20 cm, preferably between about 7 cm and about 15 cm and in the illustrated example is about 9 cm. Optionally, the height of the slot  252  may be selected so that it is between about 5% and about 20% of the cyclone height  174 , and preferably is between about 7% and about 12% of the cyclone height. 
     Referring to  FIG. 26 , in the illustrated example, the slot  252  subtends an angle  256  of approximately 60 degrees, which is about 20% of the perimeter of the cyclone chamber sidewall  173 . Alternatively, in other embodiments the slot may extend between about 10 degrees and about 350 degrees, and may occupy between about 2.75% and about 97.5% of the perimeter of the cyclone chamber. 
     The slot  252  may be provided at any desired location around the perimeter of the cyclone chamber  164 . Referring to  FIG. 26 , in the illustrated example the slot  252  is provided toward the front of the cyclone chamber  164  (i.e. forward of a vertical plane  258  containing a centrally located cyclone axis  174 ) in a location that is in communication with the forward-located dirt chamber  166 . The slot  252  is also positioned so that it is in the upper half of the cyclone chamber  164  (i.e. above a horizontal plane  260  that contains the centrally located cyclone axis  174 —when the cyclone bin assembly is mounted to the surface cleaning head). In this configuration, the lower end  262  of the slot  252  is at least partially upward facing and is spaced apart from the underlying portion of the dirt chamber sidewall by an outlet height  264 . In the illustrated example, the slot height is about 60% of the dirt collection chamber height  265  taken at the same location, and in other embodiments may be between about 35% and about 80% of the dirt collection chamber height  265 . Spacing the lower end  262  of the slot  252  a suitable distance above the bottom of the dirt collection chamber  166  (when the cyclone bin assembly is in use) may help prevent the slot  252  from becoming blocked as debris accumulates within the dirt collection chamber  166 . 
     Optionally, in accordance with another feature of the cyclone bin assembly, to help facilitate emptying the dirt collection chamber, at least one of or both of the end walls may be openable. Similarly, one or both of the cyclone chamber end walls and may be openable to allow a user to empty debris from the cyclone chamber. 
     Referring to  FIG. 22 , in the illustrated example, the dirt chamber end wall  240  is openable to empty the dirt collection chamber  166 . The first cyclone end wall  169  is mounted to, and openable with, the cyclone chamber end wall  240  and together both form part of the openable door  266  of the cyclone bin assembly  160 . The door  266  is movable between a closed position ( FIG. 21 ) and an open position ( FIG. 22 ). When the door  266  is open, both the cyclone chamber  164  and the dirt collection chamber  166  can be emptied concurrently. Alternatively, the end walls of the dirt collection chamber and the cyclone chamber need not be connected with each other, and the dirt collection chamber may be openable independently of the cyclone chamber. 
     Preferably, the openable door  266  can be can be secured in its closed position until opened by a user. The door  266  may be held closed using any suitable latch or fastening mechanism, such as latch  268 . Optionally, the latch can be provided in a location that is inaccessible when the cyclone bin assembly is mounted to the surface cleaning head. This may help prevent the door from being opened inadvertently. In the illustrated example, when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is mounted in the cavity  161  the latch  268  is disposed between the dirt chamber sidewall  244  and the brush chamber  230  (see  FIG. 12 ) and is inaccessible to the user. 
     In the illustrated example, portions of the cyclone chamber sidewall  173  coincide with portions of the dirt chamber sidewall  244  and form portions of the outer, exposed surface of the cyclone bin assembly  160 . Further, when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is attached to the surface cleaning head  102 , portions of the outer surface of the cyclone bin assembly  160  provides portions of the top face  128  of the surface cleaning head  102 . 
     It will be appreciated that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may not use any of the features of the cyclone bin assembly disclosed herein and that, in those embodiments, the cyclone bin assembly may be of various constructions and that in those embodiments any cyclone bin assembly known in the art may be used. 
     Accessing the Pre-Motor Filter Chamber 
     The following is a description of methods of accessing a pre-motor filter chamber that may be used by itself in any surface cleaning apparatus or in any combination or sub-combination with any other feature or features disclosed herein. 
     In accordance with one method, the cyclone bin assembly  160  may also include a pre-motor filter chamber  280  that houses a pre-motor filter  282  (See  FIGS. 14, 21 and 24 ). An advantage of this design is that the pre-motor filter chamber is removable with the cyclone bin assembly. Accordingly, when a user removes the cyclone bin assembly to empty the dirt collection chamber, the user may also check the condition of the pre-motor filter (e.g., by looking at the pre-motor filter if part or all of the pre-motor filter chamber is transparent) or by opening the pre-motor filter chamber and inspecting the pre-motor filter. 
     In an alternate constriction, the pre-motor filter chamber need not be part of the cyclone bin assembly. In such a case, the pre-motor filter chamber may be positioned so as to be visible when the cyclone bin assembly is removed. Accordingly, when a user removes the cyclone bin assembly to empty the dirt collection chamber, the user may also check the condition of the pre-motor filter (e.g., by looking at the pre-motor filter if part or all of the pre-motor filter chamber is transparent) or by opening the pre-motor filter chamber and inspecting the pre-motor filter. 
     In a further alternate embodiment, the pre-motor filter chamber may be opened when the cyclone bin assembly is removed. For example, the cyclone bin assembly may form part of the pre-motor filter chamber (e.g., an upstream wall of the pre-motor filter chamber). 
     It will be appreciated that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may not use any of the methods of accessing the pre-motor filter chamber disclosed herein and that, in those embodiments, the method of accessing the pre-motor filter chamber may be any of those known in the art. 
     Pre-Motor Filter Chamber 
     The following is a description of a pre-motor filter chamber, and a pre-motor filter suitable for positioning within the chamber, having various features, any or all of which may be used (individually or in any combination or sub-combination), that may be used by itself in any surface cleaning apparatus or in any combination or sub-combination with any other feature or features disclosed herein. 
     In accordance with one feature, the pre-motor filter chamber  280  may be positioned between the cyclone chamber air outlet and the suction motor air inlet. For example, the suction motor air inlet end may face the cyclone chamber air outlet end. In such an embodiment, the air exiting the cyclone chamber may travel in a generally linear direction to the suction motor while still passing through the pre-motor filter. 
     In accordance with a further feature, the pre-motor filter chamber may comprise the air flow part between the cyclone chamber and the suction motor. Accordingly, no additional air flow conduit may be required or, alternately, the length of any such additional air flow conduit may be reduced. 
     For example, as exemplified in  FIG. 14 , the pre-motor filter chamber  280  may be positioned adjacent the air outlet  186  of the cyclone chamber  164 , such that when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is mounted on the surface cleaning head  102 , the pre-motor filter chamber  280  is positioned, preferably transversely, between the cyclone chamber  164  and the suction motor  162 . 
     The air flow path connecting the cyclone air outlet  186  to the suction motor air inlet  246  may define a second air flow path that forms a portion of the overall air flow path between the dirty air inlet  110  and the clean air outlet  112 . The second air flow path may be separate from the first air flow path that connects the brush chamber  130  to the cyclone chamber  164 . The second air flow path may include the cyclone air outlet  186  and the suction motor air inlet  246 , as well as intervening structures, such as, for example, a pre-motor filter chamber  230 . 
     Like the first air flow path, the second air flow path can optionally be configured so that it is free from sharp corners and bends, so that the largest change of direction in the flow direction of the air flowing through the first air flow path is less than 90 degrees, and optionally may be less than about 70 degrees, less than about 60 degrees, less than about 45 degrees, less than 30 degrees and may be less than 15 degrees. In some embodiments, the largest change of direction in the flow direction of the air flowing through the first air flow path may be less than 5 degrees, and optionally, the first air flow path may be essentially linear. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , in the illustrated example the second air flow path is generally free from bends/corners and, while the pre-motor filter  282  has a relatively larger cross-sectional area than the cyclone air outlet  186  or motor air inlet  246 , the second flow path is essentially linear along its entire length, from the cyclone air outlet  186  to the motor air inlet  246 . In this configuration, the second air flow path extends in the transverse direction, and the direction of air flowing through the second air flow path is generally orthogonally to the direction of air flowing through the first air flow path. Providing a linear second air flow path may help reduce air flow losses as air flows through the second flow path. 
     Referring also to  FIG. 24 , in the illustrated example, the pre-motor filter chamber  280  includes a first end wall  288 , a second end wall  290  axially spaced apart from the first end wall  288 , and a sidewall  292  extending between the end walls  288  and  290 , defines an interior that is configured to hold the pre-motor filter  282 . In the illustrated example, the filter chamber end wall  288  is integrally formed with, and substantially coincident with, the cyclone chamber second end wall  171  and the dirt collection chamber end wall  242  (e.g., end walls  171  and  242  may be integrally formed with each other). This may help reduce the amount of plastic required to form the cyclone bin assembly  160 , which may help reduce the overall volume and/or weight of the cyclone bin assembly. Alternatively, the pre-motor filter chamber, cyclone chamber and dirt collection chamber can be provided as separate members. 
     In accordance with a further feature, the pre-motor filter chamber  280  may be oriented such that the upstream face of the pre-motor filter is positioned generally orthogonal to the direction of air exiting the cyclone chamber and/or the cyclone bin assembly. Accordingly, for example, the pre-motor filter may overlie part or all of the cyclone chamber and the dirt collection chamber and may extend generally rearwardly from the brush chamber to the rear end of the surface cleaning head. An advantage of this design is that the upstream surface area of the pre-motor filter may be increased thereby extending the operating time of the surface cleaning apparatus prior to the pre-motor filter requiring cleaning. For example, having a large cross-sectional area in a direction orthogonal to the flow direction may help increase the interval of time that the surface cleaning apparatus  100  can be operated without having to clean the pre-motor filter and/or reduce air flow back pressure. 
     In the illustrated example, the pre-motor filter chamber  280  is sized so that the first and second end walls  288  and  290  cover substantially the entire cross-sectional area of the cyclone bin assembly  160 . The pre-motor filter  282  is sized to fill substantially the entire cross-sectional area of the pre-motor filter chamber  280  (i.e. is a press fit/interference fit within the chamber sidewall  292 ) and, in the example illustrated, also covers substantially the entire cross-sectional area of the cyclone bin assembly  160 . In this configuration, the pre-motor filter  282 , and pre-motor filter chamber  280 , each extend in the forward/backward direction and may extend from a front portion adjacent the brush chamber  130  and rotating brush  132 , to a rear portion adjacent the rear end  118  of the surface cleaning head  102  (see  FIG. 13 ). While the pre-motor filter need not extend all the way between the front and rear portions, the longer to upstream side of the filter, the longer the time may be between cleaning/replacing the filter. 
     In the illustrated example, the pre-motor filter  282  is generally planar and is arranged perpendicular to the cyclone axis  174 . When the pre-motor filter  282  is positioned within the pre-motor filter chamber  280 , an upstream face  294  of the filter  282  faces, and overlies, the end walls  171  and  242  of the cyclone chamber  164  the dirt collection chamber  166  respectively ( FIG. 12 ). In this configuration, an opposed, downstream face  296  of the pre-motor filter  282  faces and overlies the suction motor  162 . In this configuration, the cyclone axis  174  and the suction motor axis  182  each intersect the pre-motor filter chamber  280 , and the pre-motor filter  282 , when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is mounted to the surface cleaning head  102 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 13 , in the illustrated example, a pre-motor filter axis  298  extends generally parallel to the upstream face  294 , and it the example illustrated is parallel to the downstream face  296  as well. The pre-motor filter axis  298  is, in the example illustrated, parallel with forward direction of travel of the surface cleaning apparatus  102 . 
     In the illustrated example, the pre-motor filter chamber sidewall  292  and end wall  290  are configured such that they form part of the outer surface of the cyclone bin assembly  160 , and when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is mounted to the surface cleaning head  102  the sidewall  292  forms part of the exposed outer surface of the surface cleaning head  102 . 
     In accordance with a further feature, the pre-motor filter chamber may be openable while attached to the cyclone bin assembly to allow a user to access the pre-motor filter  282 . Further, the cyclone and dirt collection chambers may be openable, and preferably concurrently openable, while the pre-motor filter chamber is attached to the cyclone bin assembly. As exemplified, the pre-motor filter chamber is provided at one end of the cyclone bin assembly and the opposed end of the cyclone bin assembly may have a door which concurrently opens the cyclone chamber and the dirt collection chamber. Alternately or in addition, the pre-motor chamber end of the cyclone bin assembly may be openable—e.g., by removing the pre-motor filter chamber and/or by having the wall defining the upstream end of the pre-motor filter chamber open. 
     As exemplified in  FIGS. 22 and 23 , the sidewall  292  may be pivotally connected to the pre-motor filter chamber inner end wall  288  so that the end wall  290  and sidewall  292  can pivot together to open the pre-motor filter chamber  280 . In this configuration, the sidewall  292  and end wall  290  may be sized to receive and retain the pre-motor filter  282  so that the pre-motor filter  282  is carried with the sidewall  292  and end wall  290  when the pre-motor filter chamber  280  is opened. Pivoting the pre-motor filter  282  in this manner can expose the upstream side  294  of the pre-motor filter to the user when the chamber  280  is opened. This may allow a user to inspect the upstream side  294  of the pre-motor filter  282  without having to touch or remove the pre-motor filter  282  from its housing  280 . Alternatively, at least a portion of the sidewall  292  may fixedly connected to the end wall  288 , and the end wall  290  may be movably connected to the sidewall  292 . In this configuration, the end wall  290  can be opened to access the interior of the pre-motor filter chamber  280  while the sidewall  292  and pre-motor filter  282  can remain stationary. The pre-motor filter chamber  280  is retained in the closed position by a releasable latch  291  as is known in the art ( FIG. 23 ), which, like latch  268  is positioned so that it is inaccessible when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is mounted in the cavity  161 . 
     In accordance with another feature, some or all of the pre-motor filter chamber sidewall  292 , the pre-motor filter chamber outer end wall  290  and handle  408  may be a one piece assembly, such as by being manufactured separately and secured together or by being integrally formed together. An advantage of this feature is that the handle may be structurally connected to the cyclone bin assembly. 
     Optionally, the inner surfaces of the first and second end walls  288  and  290  of the pre-motor filter chamber  280  may be provided with support members, provided as a plurality ribs  300  in the example illustrated ( FIG. 24 ) to help support the pre-motor filter  282  in a position where it is spaced apart from the inner surfaces of the end walls  288  and  290 . Referring to  FIG. 14 , in this configuration, the pre-motor filter chamber  280  includes an upstream header  302  between the upstream side  294  of the pre-motor filter  282  and the end wall  288 , and a downstream header  304  between the opposing downstream side  296  of the pre-motor filter  282  and the end wall  290 . Air can travel from the upstream header  302  to the downstream header  304  by flowing through the pre-motor filter  282 . 
     In accordance with another feature, the pre-motor filter chamber air outlet  308  and the suction motor air inlet  246  may be configured to meet each other in sealing plane  309  that is at an angle to the vertical. It will be appreciated that the surface cleaning apparatus  100  can be configured so that the sealing plane is vertical, horizontal or is at an angle relative to a vertical plane. In the illustrated example, the sealing plane  309  inclined relative to the vertical direction. This may help facilitate automatic re-connection of the air outlet  308  and the suction motor air inlet  246  when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is inserted generally vertically downwardly into the cavity  161 . It will be appreciated that one or both of the inlet  246  and the air outlet  308  may be provided with a gasket, O-ring or the like. 
     In accordance with another feature, the pre-motor filter chamber may be configured to redirect the air from the cyclone chamber outlet to the suction motor inlet without the use of any conduit extending at an angle to the cyclone chamber and suction motor axis. Referring to  FIG. 24 , the pre-motor filter chamber  280  has a chamber air inlet  306  in communication with and aligned with the cyclone air outlet  186 , and a chamber air outlet  308  ( FIG. 20 ) that is connectable, and aligned with the air inlet  246  of the suction motor  162  (see also  FIG. 14 ). Optionally, the chamber air inlet  306  and chamber air outlet  308  may be generally aligned with each other or alternatively, as exemplified, they may be offset from each other. Referring to  FIG. 14 , in the illustrated example, the centerline  310  of the pre-motor filter chamber air inlet  306  is aligned with the cyclone axis  174  and is offset from the centerline  312  of the pre-motor filter chamber air outlet  308 , which is aligned with the suction motor axis  182 . If the pre-motor filter chamber has an upstream and a downstream header, the air entering the upstream header may be spread out over the upstream surface of the pre-motor filter and travel through the pre-motor filter. The air will enter the downstream header and exit through the outlet  308 . In this way, the air is aligned with the suction motor inlet without any curved or angled flow conduits. 
     The pre-motor filter may be any suitable type of filter. Referring also to  FIG. 24 , in the illustrated example the pre-motor filer  282  includes a foam filter  284  and a downstream felt layer  286  that are both positionable within the pre-motor filter chamber  280 . In this configuration the foam filter  284  comprises the upstream side  294  of the pre-motor filter and the felt layer  286  provides the downstream side  296  of the pre-motor filter  282 . Preferably, the foam filter  284  and felt layer  286  are removable to allow a user to clean and/or replace them when they are dirty. In alternate embodiments, any pre-motor filter or filters known in the art may be used. 
     In accordance with another feature, the cyclone bin assembly  160  may be removable from the surface cleaning head  102  as a closed module, where the only portions the cyclone bin assembly  160  that are open when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is removed from the cavity  161  are the inlet end  190  of cyclone air inlet  184  and pre-motor filter chamber air outlet  308  (see for example  FIG. 20 ). 
     Alternately, or in addition, the cyclone bin assembly may be configured to inhibit dirt collected in the cyclone chamber and/or the dirt collection chamber from exiting the cyclone bin assembly as the cyclone bin assembly is conveyed to an emptying location. As exemplified in  FIG. 12 , the outlet end  194  of the cyclone air inlet  184  may be axially spaced from the dirt inlet to the dirt collection chamber  166  to help reduce the likelihood that debris from the dirt collection chamber  166  will escape via the cyclone air inlet  184  when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is detached. When the surface cleaning apparatus is in use, dust and fine debris flowing into the pre-motor filter chamber  280  may tend to be collected on the upstream side  294  of the pre-motor filter  282 , which leaves the downstream side  296  of the pre-motor filter  282  as the relatively clean side. In the illustrated example, the pre-motor filter chamber air outlet  308  is in communication with the downstream side  296  of the pre-motor filter  282 . As the downstream side  296  tends to be the cleaner side of the pre-motor filter  282 , this configuration may help reduce the likelihood that dust and debris can escape the cyclone bin assembly  160  via the pre-motor filter chamber air outlet  308 . Configuring the cyclone bin assembly  160  in this manner may help prevent dirt and debris from spilling out of the cyclone bin assembly  160  when it is transported to the garbage for emptying. 
     Referring to  FIG. 30 , in the illustrated example, removing the cyclone bin assembly  160  from the cavity  161  reveals the air inlet  246  of the suction motor  162  and the air outlet  192  of the brush chamber  130 . Replacing the cyclone bin assembly  160  automatically re-establishes the respective connections between the pre-motor filter chamber air outlet  308  and the suction motor air inlet  246 , and between the upstream end  190  of the cyclone air inlet  184  and the brush chamber air outlet  192 . 
     Optionally, part or all of the sidewalls  292  of the pre-motor filter chamber can be at least partially transparent so that a user can visually inspect the condition of the pre-motor filter  282  without having to remove open the pre-motor filter chamber  280  or remove the cyclone bin assembly  160  from the cavity  161 . 
     It will be appreciated that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may not use any of the features of the pre-motor filter chamber disclosed herein and that, in those embodiments, the pre-motor filter chamber may be of various constructions and that in those embodiments any pre-motor filter chamber known in the art may be used. 
     Suction Motor &amp; Brush Motor 
     The following is a description of a configuration of a suction motor and a configuration of a brush motor in a surface cleaning head, wither or both of which may be used by themselves in any surface cleaning apparatus or in any combination or sub-combination with any other feature or features disclosed herein. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 12 and 13 , the suction motor  162  has a first end  176  and a second end  178  that are axially spaced apart from each other by a suction motor length  180 , along a suction motor axis  182 , about which the rotor of the suction motor  162  rotates. In accordance with one configuration, as exemplified in  FIGS. 12 and 13 , the cyclone axis  174  and suction motor axis  182  are parallel to each other and extend in the transverse direction, generally orthogonally to the forward direction of travel of the surface cleaning head. An advantage of this configuration is that are may travel generally linearly between the cyclone chamber and the suction motor. 
     In the illustrated example, the suction motor air inlet  246  is located at the first end  176  of the suction motor  162  and is in air flow communication with the cyclone air outlet  186 . The suction motor also includes an air outlet  270  that is provided in a motor housing sidewall  272  and is in air flow communication with the clean air outlet  112  via an internal air flow conduit. 
     Referring to  FIG. 13 , in the illustrated example, the suction motor air inlet  246  is positioned so that air flowing into the air inlet  246  travels in the transverse direction. The suction motor air inlet  246  is also positioned so that when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is mounted on the surface cleaning head  102  the second end  170  of the cyclone chamber  164  is generally opposed to and faces the first end  176  of the suction motor  162 , with the pre-motor filter chamber  280  positioned laterally therebetween. Further, in the illustrated example, the cyclone air outlet  186  faces and partially overlaps the air inlet  246  of the suction motor  162 . However, the cyclone air outlet  186  may be slightly offset from the suction motor air inlet  246 , and in the example illustrated the centerline of the cyclone air outlet  186  (which in the example illustrated coincides with the cyclone axis  174 ) is offset from the centerline of the suction motor air inlet  246  (which in the example illustrated coincides with the suction motor axis  182 ). 
     Referring also to  FIG. 12 , the surface cleaning head  102  also includes a brush motor  214  that is drivingly connected to the rotatable brush  132  by a drive linkage  216 , which in the illustrated example includes a drive belt. The brush motor  214  has a first end  218  and a second end  220  that are spaced apart from each by a brush motor length  222  other, along a brush motor axis  224 , about which the rotor of the brush motor  214  rotates. It will be appreciated that brush motor  214  may be of any design and may be drivingly connected to the brush  132  by any means known in the art such as a direct gear drive. In some embodiments, the brush motor may be incorporated into the brush  132  (e.g., it may be positioned internally or along the length of brush  132 . 
     In accordance with another configuration, as exemplified in  FIGS. 12 and 13 , brush motor  214  may be positioned adjacent to and forward of the suction motor  162  in the direct of travel of the surface cleaning head  102 . Alternatively, the brush motor may be located behind the suction motor. An advantage of this design is that the brush motor may overlie part or all of the dirt collection chamber. Further, part or all of the pre-motor filter chamber may be positioned between the brush motor and the dirt collection chamber enabling large upstream cross-sectional area of the pre-motor filter. 
     Optionally, at least a portion of the brush motor may be located transversely between the first and second ends of the suction motor. The amount of the brush motor that transversely overlaps (e.g., extends parallel to) the suction motor, in the direction parallel to suction motor axis, may be between about 10% and 100% of the length of the brush motor, and preferably between about 50% and 100% and more preferably between about 70% and about 100%. At least partially overlapping the brush motor and suction motor in this manner may help reduce the overall size of the surface cleaning head. Referring to  FIG. 12 , in the illustrated example the first end  218  of the brush motor  214  is generally aligned with the first end  176  of the suction motor  162  in the transverse direction, and the second end  220  of the brush motor  214  is disposed between the first and second ends  176 ,  178  of the suction motor  162  in the transverse direction. In this configuration, substantially the entire brush motor  214  is located between the first and second ends  176 ,  178  of the suction motor  162 . This enables the dirt collection chamber to extend forwardly from the cyclone chamber and occupy a space transversely opposed to the brush motor. 
     In accordance with another configuration, as exemplified in  FIG. 18 , the brush motor may be vertically positioned with respect to the suction motor so as to not extend above or below the suction motor. An advantage of this configuration is that the brush motor does not affect the height of the surface cleaning head. As exemplified in  FIG. 18 , the suction motor  162  has an upper end  226 , and an opposed lower end  228  located adjacent the bottom face  126  of the surface cleaning head  102 . In the illustrated example, the brush motor  214  is positioned vertically within the surface cleaning head  102  so that the brush motor axis  224  is located vertically between the upper and lower ends  226  and  228  of the suction motor  162  such that a horizontal plane  230  containing the brush motor axis  224  intersects the suction motor  162 . 
     Alternately, or in addition, as exemplified in  FIG. 14 , the brush motor is also located vertically between an upper end  232  and an opposed lower end  234  of the cyclone chamber  164  such that the horizontal plane  230  also intersects the cyclone chamber  164  and the dirt collection chamber  166 . In the illustrated example, the upper end  232  and lower end  234  are portions of the cyclone chamber sidewall  173 , and also form portions of the exposed, outer surface of the cyclone bin assembly  160 . 
     In accordance with another configuration, as exemplified in  FIGS. 12 and 13 , the brush motor  214  may at least partially overlap the cyclone bin assembly  160  in the forward/backward direction. This may help reduce the overall size of the surface cleaning head. In this configuration, the laterally inner end  218  of the brush motor  214  may face, and at least partially overlap the laterally inner end of the cyclone bin assembly  160 . Optionally, the inner end of the brush motor may face and overlap at least a portion of an end face of the cyclone chamber and/or at least a portion of the dirt collection chamber. Referring to  FIG. 12 , in the illustrated example, the laterally inner, first end  218  of the brush motor  214  opposes and faces towards the laterally inner, end of the cyclone bin assembly  160 . Specifically, the first end of the brush motor opposes and faces towards the second end wall  242  of the dirt collection chamber  166  and the end wall  290  of the pre-motor filter chamber  280 . It will be appreciated that if the pre-motor filter chamber did not overlap the dirt collection chamber, then the brush motor  214  may directly face the dirt collection chamber and may extend closer thereto. 
     In accordance with this configuration, the brush motor may overlap all or a significant portion of the dirt collection chamber (e.g., 50% or more, 75% or more, 80% or more or 90% or more). Further, the brush motor may not overlap any or only a small portion of the cyclone chamber (e.g., it may overlap 25% or less, 15% or less, 10% or less). As exemplified in  FIG. 12 , the brush motor  214  is offset forwardly from the cyclone chamber  164  in the direction of travel of the surface cleaning head  102  (downward as illustrated in  FIG. 12 ) such that the brush motor  214  does not impinge on the projection of the cross-sectional area of the cyclone chamber  164  in the transverse direction. The brush motor  214  does however, in the example illustrated, overlap with a portion of the dirt collection chamber  166  and the pre-motor filter chamber  280 . An advantage of this design, as is discussed subsequently, is that the suction motor and the cyclone chamber may have comparable diameters and the cyclone air outlet and the suction motor inlet may have comparable diameters. Accordingly, each of the suction motor and the cyclone chamber may be sized for a similar air flow therethrough and, accordingly, flow of air through the suction motor and the cyclone chamber may produce less back pressure. Further, the brush motor is oriented and sized to fit in a space opposed to the dirt collection chamber and between the suction motor and the brush chamber. 
     In accordance with another configuration, the suction motor may at least partially overlap or overlie the cyclone bin assembly in the forward/backward direction. In this configuration, the laterally inner end of the suction motor may face, and at least partially overlap the laterally inner end of the cyclone bin assembly. Optionally, the inner end of the suction motor may face and overlap at least a portion of an end face of the cyclone chamber and/or at least a portion of the dirt collection chamber. This may help reduce the overall size of the surface cleaning head. For example, the suction motor may overlap all or a significant portion of the cyclone chamber (e.g., 50% or more, 75% or more, 80% or more or 90% or more) and it may not overlap any or only a small portion of the dirt collection chamber (e.g., it may overlap 25% or less, 15% or less, 10% or less). Referring to  FIG. 12 , in the illustrated example, the laterally inner, first end  176  of the suction motor  162  opposes and faces the laterally inner, end of the cyclone bin assembly. Specifically, the first end  176  of the suction motor  162  opposes and directly faces the end wall  290  of the pre-motor filter chamber  280 , overlies the second end wall  171  of the cyclone chamber  164 , and is spaced rearwardly from the second end wall  242  of the dirt collection chamber  166 . In this configuration, the inner end of the cyclone bin assembly (provided by the end wall  290 ) faces/overlies both the first end  176  of the suction motor  162  and the first end  218  of the brush motor  214 . 
     In accordance with another configuration, the suction motor and the brush motor may both be provided in the same lateral side, and preferably in the same lateral half (in a lateral direction) of the surface cleaning head. This may help provide space in the other lateral side of the surface cleaning to accommodate the cyclone chamber, dirt collection chamber and/or pre-motor filter chamber. In the illustrated example, the suction motor  162  and brush motor  214  are both entirely provided on the same lateral side of transverse centerline  314  of the surface cleaning head  102 , and are therefore in the same half of the surface cleaning head  102  (the right half as shown in  FIG. 12 ). The cyclone chamber  164  and dirt collection chamber  166  are each located on the opposite side of the lateral centerline  314 . The pre-motor filter chamber  280 , and the pre-motor filter itself  282 , are, in the example illustrated, intersected by the lateral centerline  314 . 
     In accordance with another configuration, both the brush axis  134  and brush motor axis  224  are parallel to, and offset from, the cyclone axis  174  and the suction motor axis  182 . In the illustrated configuration, the brush motor axis  224  intersects the pre-motor filter chamber  280 , the pre-motor filter  282  and the dirt collection chamber end wall  242 . Aligning the cyclone chamber  164 , suction motor  162  and brush motor  214  in this manner may help reduce the overall size of the surface cleaning head  102 . 
     In accordance with another configuration, as exemplified in  FIGS. 12-14 , the cyclone axis  174  may be located forward and at a higher elevation than the motor axis  182 , and behind and at a higher elevation than the brush motor axis  224 . The suction motor axis  182  may also be located behind and at a higher elevation than the brush motor axis  224 . Offsetting the axes of the cyclone, suction motor and brush motor may help nest the components together, which may help reduce the overall size of the surface cleaning apparatus. 
     It will be appreciated that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may not use any of the features of the suction motor and brush motor disclosed herein and that, in those embodiments, the suction motor and brush motor may be of various constructions and arranged in any configuration. 
     Mounting Hub 
     The following is a description of a mounting hub having various features, any or all of which may be used (individually or in any combination or sub-combination), by itself in any surface cleaning apparatus or in any combination or sub-combination with any other feature or features disclosed herein. Rear wheels and/or the drive handle may be connected to the mounting hub. The mounting hub is positioned at the rear end of the surface cleaning head and exterior to the interior space of the surface cleaning head. Accordingly the pivot mount and/or the rear wheel mount need not be within the enclosed volume of the surface cleaning head and may thereby reduce the foot print and/or height of the surface cleaning head. 
     As exemplified in  FIG. 2 , the surface cleaning apparatus  100  may include a mounting hub  316  positioned at the rear end  118  of the surface cleaning head  102 , rearward of the rear face  120  (rear face  120  defining the rear end of the interior volume provided by the surface cleaning head). Mounting hub  316  may be provided as part of the surface cleaning head and may be a one piece assembly and may be integrally molded with one of the components of the surface cleaning head. 
     As exemplified in  FIGS. 8 and 15 , the surface cleaning head  102  is supported by a pair of rear wheels  318 , which are rotatable about a rear wheel axis  320 , and a pair of smaller front wheels  322  rotatable about a front wheel axis  324 . Rear wheels  318  are rotatably mounted to the mounting hub  316  using axles  326  (See  FIG. 15 ). In this example, the rear wheels  318  are positioned rearward of the suction motor  162  and cyclone bin assembly  160 . 
     In the illustrated example, the mounting hub  316  includes a top wall  328  ( FIG. 3 ), a bottom wall  330  ( FIG. 8 ), a rear wall  332  and two sidewalls  334  ( FIG. 8 ). The sidewalls  334  are spaced apart by a mounting hub width  336  in the transverse direction. In the illustrated example, the mounting hub width  336  is less than the width  338  of the surface cleaning head  102 , and is selected so that the rear wheels  318  are recessed laterally inwardly from the side walls  124  of the surface cleaning head  102  by respective recessed distances  340 . The width  338  of the surface cleaning head  102  may be any suitable width to accommodate the components within the cleaning head, and optionally may be less than about 20 inches, less than about 15 inches, less than about 13 inches, less than about 12.5 inches, and optionally less than about 12 inches. The recessed distances can be any suitable distance, and optionally can be between about 5% and about 80% or more of the distance  344  between the central axis and the respective sidewall  124  of the surface cleaning head  102 . Preferably, the recessed distances  340  are at least about 10%, and more preferably may be at least about 20% of the distance  344 . While illustrated as generally symmetrical, in other embodiments the recessed distances  340  may be different from each other. An advantage of this feature is that the rear wheels are spaced apart sufficiently to provide stability to the surface cleaning head but are spaced transversely inwardly so as to places the wheels away from objects (e.g., furniture) which they might otherwise contact as the surface cleaning head is used. 
     Referring also to  FIG. 12 , in this configuration, a laterally outer surface  342  of the rear wheel  318  illustrated on the right side of  FIG. 12  is disposed laterally between the first and second ends  176  and  178  of the suction motor  162 , and a laterally outer surface  342  of the rear wheel  318  illustrated on the left side of  FIG. 12  is disposed laterally between the first and second ends  168  and  170  of the cyclone chamber  164 . The lateral spacing between the rear wheels (which is generally equal to the mounting hub width  336 ) can be selected so that the pre-motor filter chamber  280  may be located laterally between one of the rear wheels  318  and a side wall  124  of the surface cleaning head  102  (e.g., on the rear face of the surface cleaning head). 
     Referring also to  FIG. 8 , in this configuration, the rear wheels  318  are generally, laterally aligned with the front wheels  322  so that a plane containing the laterally outer face of each rear wheel  318  intersects a respective front wheel  322 . 
     Providing a mounting hub to support the rear wheels, and optionally other components (such as the upper portion and release actuators described herein) may help preserve the space within the interior of the surface cleaning head to accommodate air flow components. This configuration may also help facilitate a desired arrangement for the rear wheels as the axles and other connectors within the mounting hub do not interact with or interfere with the air flow components provided within the interior of the surface cleaning head. 
     In this illustrated example, the rear wheels  318  have a rear diameter  346  ( FIG. 8 ) that is larger than the diameter of the front wheels  322 , and the rear wheel axis  320  is located rearward of the front wheel axis  324  in the direction of travel, and at a higher elevation than the front wheel axis  324 . In the illustrated example, the rear wheel axis  320  extends in the transverse direction and, in the example illustrated, is parallel to the cyclone axis  174 , the suction motor axis  182 , the brush motor axis  224  and the brush axis  134 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 8 , in the illustrated example the front wheels  322  are positioned along the back edge  146  of the dirty air inlet  110  and extend at least partially into the brush chamber  130 . 
     Optionally, in addition to the front wheels  322 , the surface cleaning apparatus may include one or more rolling support members. In the illustrated example the surface cleaning apparatus includes rolling support members in the form of rollers  348  that are positioned adjacent the front wheels  322 . The rollers  348  may be co-axial with the wheels  322  so that they rotate about the front wheel axis  324 . The rollers have a roller diameter  350  that is slightly less than the front wheel diameter  352 , and a roller width  354  that is greater than the front wheel width  356 . In the example illustrated, the roller width  354  is also greater than the rear wheel width  358 . Providing relatively wide rollers  348  may help distribute the weight of the surface cleaning apparatus  100  over a larger surface area of the surface being cleaned. Distributing the weight of the apparatus over a larger area may help support the apparatus when it is being rolled across relatively soft surfaces, such as carpets and other floor coverings. Distributing the weight may help prevent the surface cleaning apparatus  100  from sinking into soft floor coverings, which may help reduce the amount of force required from a user to move the surface cleaning apparatus across the floor coverings. When the surface cleaning apparatus  100  is moved across relatively hard surfaces (such as wood and/or tile flooring) it may be desirable to support the surface cleaning head  102  using the front wheels  322  and rear wheels  318 , without engaging the rollers  348 . Sizing the rollers  348  to have a smaller diameter than the front wheels  322  may allow the rollers  348  to remain spaced apart from hard surfaces that are engaged by the front wheels  322 . 
     Providing the front wheels  322  and/or optional rollers  348  adjacent the rear edge  146  of the dirty air inlet  110  may help keep the rear edge  146  spaced apart from surface being cleaned. It may also help lift the rear edge  146  of the dirty air inlet  110  over obstacles and/or transitions between flooring types and reduce the likelihood of the dirty air inlet  110  becoming hung-up or otherwise inhibiting forward movement of the surface cleaning head  102 . 
     It will be appreciated that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may not use any of the features of the mounting hub disclosed herein and that, in those embodiments, the mounting hub may be of various constructions or a mounting hub may not be used. For example, the mounting hub may be configured so that the rear wheels are positioned laterally outboard of the surface cleaning head, or the rear wheels may be mounted to the sidewalls of the surface cleaning head and the surface cleaning apparatus need not include a mounting hub. 
     Cyclone Bin Assembly Removal and Latching/Release Mechanism 
     The following is a description of a cyclone bin assembly latching and release mechanism having various features, any or all of which may be used (individually or in any combination or sub-combination), by itself in any surface cleaning apparatus or in any combination or sub-combination with any other feature or features disclosed herein. 
     As mentioned herein, preferably the cyclone bin assembly  160  is removable from the cavity  161  on the surface cleaning head. Preferably, to help facilitate removal of the cyclone bin assembly  160 , the cyclone bin assembly  160  can be movable from a use or cleaning position (for example  FIGS. 1-10 and 46 ) to a removal position (for example  FIGS. 28-32 and 47 ). In the cleaning position, the cyclone bin assembly  160  may provide the air flow connection between the dirty air inlet  110  and the suction motor  162 , and ultimately the clean air outlet  112 . In the removal position, the cyclone bin assembly  160  is positioned so that air flow communication between the dirty air inlet  110  and the suction motor  162  is interrupted and the cyclone bin assembly is positioned to enable a user to remove the cyclone bin assembly from the surface cleaning head. 
     For example, when the in the cleaning position, the upstream end  190  of the cyclone air inlet  184  may be in air flow communication with the air outlet  192  of the brush chamber  130 , and the air outlet of the cyclone bin assembly  160  (i.e. the pre-motor filter chamber air outlet  308  in the example illustrated) may be in air flow communication with the air flow path leading to the suction motor (e.g. suction motor air inlet  246 ). In this configuration, the surface cleaning apparatus  100  is usable to clean the floor. 
     In contrast, when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is moved to the removal position, air flow communication between the cyclone bin assembly  160  and the rest of the air flow path is interrupted. However, when in the removal position, the cyclone bin assembly may continue to be at least partially, and preferably entirely, supported by the surface cleaning apparatus (e.g., the surface cleaning head). This may allow a user to move the cyclone bin assembly into the removal position without having to lift or remove the cyclone bin assembly or support its weight. 
     In accordance with one feature, the cyclone bin assembly  160  may be moved relative to the surface cleaning apparatus when transitioning from the cleaning position to the removal position. For example, the cyclone bin assembly  160  may translate, pivot, rotate or otherwise move relative to other portions of the surface cleaning apparatus (such as the surface cleaning head  102 ) when transitioning from the cleaning position to the removal position. Moving the cyclone bin assembly  160  and/or changing its orientation when transitioning from the cleaning position to the removal position may help position the cyclone bin assembly in a position that is relatively easier to access for a user. For example, when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is in the cleaning position it may be substantially or fully nested within the cavity  161  on the surface cleaning head  102  and may be disposed relatively close to the ground. 
     In accordance with another feature, the surface cleaning apparatus  100  may be configured so that when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is transitioned to the removal position it is arranged in a position that is more convenient for a user to reach it, including, for example, by moving portions of the cyclone bin assembly  160  to higher elevations and/or by exposing features (such as handles) that are exposed for access by a user in the removal position and are less exposed, or inaccessible, when in the cleaning position. 
     In accordance with another feature, the cyclone bin assembly  160  may be biased toward or into one, or both of the cleaning position and the removal position. Preferably, the cyclone bin is at least biased toward the removal position. Accordingly, when a lock that secures the cyclone bin assembly  160  in the use position is released, the cyclone bin assembly  160  may be moved sufficiently out of the cavity  161  (e.g., by moving a handle away from the surface cleaning head) to assist a user to pick up and remove the cyclone bin assembly  160  from the surface cleaning head. Alternately, or in addition, the lock release actuator (e.g., foot pedal  388 ) may drive a mechanical member that moves the cyclone bin assembly to the removal position. 
     In accordance with another feature, the cyclone bin assembly  160  may be securable in one or both of the cleaning and removal positions using a lock. The lock may be any suitable apparatus, and optionally can be configured to lock the cyclone bin assembly in the cleaning position until the lock is released. Preferably, the lock may be automatically re-engaged when the cyclone bin assembly is moved into the cleaning position so that the cyclone bin assembly will be held in place without requiring a user to manually re-latch or reengage the lock. The lock may be configured to engage one or both of the cradle and the cyclone bin assembly, or any other suitable component of the surface cleaning apparatus. 
     As exemplified, cyclone bin assembly  160  is positionable between a cleaning position ( FIG. 1 ) and a removal position ( FIG. 28 ). To help facilitate access and removal of the cyclone bin assembly  160 , the cyclone bin assembly  160  is pivotal, relative to the surface cleaning head  102 , into in a removal position ( FIG. 28 ), in which the cyclone bin assembly  160  is supported on the surface cleaning head  102 , but the air flow communication between the cyclone air inlet  184  and the brush chamber air outlet  192 , and between the pre-motor filter chamber air outlet  308  and the suction motor air inlet  246  is interrupted. As exemplified, the laterally inward end of the cyclone bin assembly, comprising the pre-motor filter chamber  280 , moves upwardly and pivots toward the lateral side wall  124  of the surface cleaning head  102 . 
     In accordance with another feature, the surface cleaning apparatus may include a movable support or platform member that at least partially supports, and may fully support, the cyclone bin assembly in the removal position. Preferably, the cyclone bin assembly may be mounted to and supported by (e.g., locked to) the movable platform member, such that movement of the movable platform results in a corresponding movement of the cyclone bin assembly. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 27 and 28 , in the illustrated example the surface cleaning head includes a movable platform in the form of a cradle  360  that is configured to receive and support the laterally outer end of the cyclone bin assembly  160 , and is rotatable relative to the surface cleaning head about a cradle axis  362  ( FIGS. 37 and 38 ). In the illustrated example, the cradle axis  362  is parallel to the forward direction of travel of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 , and is generally orthogonal to the cyclone axis  174 , suction motor axis  182  and brush motor axis  224 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 32 and 36 , in the illustrated example, the cradle  360  is generally L-shaped and includes an end wall  364  and a sidewall  366  extending from the end wall  364 . The end wall  364  is configured to receive the laterally outer end of the cyclone bin assembly  160  in a relatively snug engagement. In the example illustrated, the end of the cyclone bin assembly  160  engaged by the cradle  360  includes the openable door  266 . The end wall  364  includes an upstanding rim  368  that surrounds the openable door  266  of the cyclone bin assembly  160  and helps retain the cyclone bin assembly  160  on the cradle when in the removal position. 
     The cradle end wall  364  is configured to abut a portion of the sidewall of the cyclone bin assembly  160  (and may form a portion of the sidewall of the surface cleaning head), and has a length  370  ( FIG. 38 ) that is optionally less than or equal to the length  372  ( FIG. 21 ) between the openable door  266  and the end wall  290  of the pre-motor filter chamber  280 , and preferably is less than the length  372 . When the cyclone bin assembly  160  is in the cleaning position, the cradle  360  is rotated so that the end wall  364  is generally horizontal and is disposed vertically between the cyclone bin assembly  160  and the bottom surface  374  of the cavity  161 . In the illustrated example, the bottom surface  374  of the cavity  161  includes a recessed region  376  sized to receive the end wall  364 . In this configuration the end wall  364  of the cradle  360  is generally vertical, such that the cyclone bin assembly  160  is positioned laterally between the cradle end wall  364  and the suction motor  162 . When the cyclone bin assembly  160  is in the cleaning position, an upper portion  378  ( FIG. 38 ) of the rim  368  helps inhibit vertical movement of the cyclone bin assembly  160  relative to the cradle  360 , and the rest of the surface cleaning head  102 . 
     In the illustrated example, rotation of the cradle  360  about its axis causes a corresponding rotation of the cyclone bin assembly  160  from the generally horizontal cleaning position to a generally vertical removal position. When the cyclone bin assembly arrives in the removal position the cyclone axis  174  may be generally perpendicular to the previous orientation of the cyclone axis  174  when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is in the cleaning position. Referring to  FIG. 27 , from the removal position, the cyclone bin assembly  160  can be lifted vertically out of the cradle  360  (i.e. the openable door  266  end can be lifted vertically out of the rim  368 ) and carried to the garbage for emptying, etc. 
     Optionally, the cradle may be freely movable between the cleaning and removal positions, or alternatively it may be biased. Referring to  FIG. 38 , in the illustrated example, a torsion spring  380  and an optional dampener assembly  382  is connected to the cradle  360  to bias the cradle  360  toward the removal position. The torsion spring resistance is selected so that it is sufficient to pivot the cradle  360  and a cyclone bin assembly  160 , including the weight of the debris within the dirt collection chamber  166 , to the vertical removal position. The damper assembly  382  can be provided to help slow the rotation of the cradle  360  as the cyclone bin assembly approaches the removal position. 
     In the illustrated example, the cradle  360  is only biased toward the removal position. To return the cyclone bin assembly  160  to the cleaning position a user may reseat the laterally outer end of the cyclone bin assembly  160  onto the end wall of the cradle, and then pivot the cyclone bin assembly  160  into the cavity  161 , toward the cleaning position. 
     As exemplified in  FIGS. 33-36 , the surface cleaning apparatus may include a lock that is configured to secure the cyclone bin assembly  160  in the cleaning position. The lock includes a latch member  384  that is configured to releasably engage a corresponding locking portion, in the form of a shoulder  386  (see also  FIGS. 29 and 30 ) that is provided on an outer surface of the cyclone bin assembly  160 . In the illustrated example, the latch member  384  protrudes through an opening in the bottom surface  374  of the cavity  161 , and the shoulder  386  is provided on the sidewall of the cyclone bin assembly  160  that is downward facing and opposes the bottom  374  of the cavity  161  when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is positioned within the cavity. Specifically, in the example illustrated the shoulder  386  is provided on an outer surface of the pre-motor filter chamber sidewall  292 . In the illustrated example, when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is in the cleaning position, the latch member  384  is located beneath the pre-motor filter chamber  280 , and the pre-motor filter therein  382 . 
     Alternatively, the latch member and shoulder may be provided at a different location. For example, the latch member may be provided adjacent the suction motor and the shoulder may be provided on an end wall of the cyclone bin assembly. 
     In the illustrated example, the lock also includes an actuator, in the form of a foot pedal  388  that is provided on upper portion  104 , and a linkage that connects the foot pedal  388  to the latch member  384 . In the illustrated example, the foot pedal  388  translates vertically when stepped on by a user. It will be appreciated that other actuators may be used, such as a button. Further, the actuator may engage a drive motor that moves the cyclone bin assembly to the removal and/or use positions. 
     The following is a description of the exemplified foot pedal  388 . Referring to  FIG. 33 , movement of the foot pedal  388  causes a corresponding vertical translation of a first linkage member  390  extending within the upper portion  104 . The first linkage  390  abuts an upper end  392  of a vertically translatable second linkage  394  disposed within the mounting hub  316 . A lower end  396  of the second linkage  394  is configured to engage a camming surface  398  of a movable locking arm in the form of a third linkage member  400 . The lock is configured so that downward vertical movement of the first linkage member  390  causes downward movement of the second linkage  394  and a generally horizontal, rearward translation of the third linkage member  400  (from right to left as illustrated in  FIGS. 33-35 ). The rearward, horizontal movement of the third linkage member  400  is sufficient to move the latch member  384  from a position in which it engages the shoulder  386  ( FIG. 33 ) to a position where the latch member  384  is disengaged from the shoulder  386  ( FIG. 34 ), thereby unlocking the cyclone bin assembly  160  and allowing it to be pivoted out of the cavity  161  (shown partially pivoted in  FIG. 35 ). 
     In the illustrated example, the first linkage member  390  is movable with the upper portion  104  relative to the second linkage portion  394 , and pivots away from the second linkage portion  394  when the upper portion of the surface cleaning apparatus is pivoted into the floor cleaning position ( FIG. 3 ). In this configuration, the presence of the lock does not interfere with the pivoting and/or rotating of the upper portion  104  when the surface cleaning apparatus is in use. This configuration also effectively deactivates the actuator so that the cyclone bin assembly  160  is unlocked while the surface cleaning apparatus  100  is in use. Specifically, when the upper portion  104  is pivoted into the cleaning position ( FIG. 3 ), the first linkage  390  is spaced apart from the upper end  392  of the second linkage  394 , such that movement of the foot pedal  388  is not translated to the second linkage  394 . When the upper portion  104  is returned to the storage position ( FIGS. 1 and 33 ), the first linkage  390  is automatically repositioned adjacent the upper end  392  of the second linkage  394 , thereby reconnecting the lock and allowing vertical movement of the first linkage  390  to cause vertical movement of the second linkage  394  (and the resulting movement of the third linkage  400 ). 
     Both the foot pedal  388  and third linkage  400  are biased, using springs  402  and  404  respectively, such that the latch member  384  is biased toward its engaged position, in the absence of a user stepping on the foot pedal  388 . In the illustrated example, the third linkage  400  is biased forwardly. 
     In accordance with another feature, a supplemental biasing member may be provided to help initially move the cyclone bin assembly out of the cleaning position when the lock is released. A supplemental biasing member may be used to help reduce the load on the torsion spring, or alternatively may be used to replace the torsion spring entirely. Using the supplemental biasing member to help lift the cyclone bin assembly out of its horizontal position may help reduce the magnitude of the moment force that needs to be overcome by the biasing spring (i.e. by pivoting the cyclone bin assembly slightly such that the centre of gravity of the cyclone bin assembly is moved somewhat closed to the cradle axis about which the moment forces act). 
     Referring to  FIGS. 31 and 37 , in the illustrated example, the surface cleaning apparatus  100  includes a supplemental biasing member in the form of a leaf spring  406 . The leaf spring  406  is disposed within the cavity  161  (mounted to the bottom surface  374  in the illustrated example) at a location where it engages, and is compressed by the outer surface of the cyclone bin assembly  160  when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is in the cleaning position. While the latch member  384  is engaged with the shoulder  386 , the cyclone bin assembly  160  is retained in the cleaning position, overcoming the combined biasing forces of the leaf spring  406  and torsion spring  380 . 
     When the latch member  384  is disengaged from the shoulder  386  ( FIG. 34 ), the leaf spring  406  urges the cyclone bin assembly  160  upwards, away from the bottom surface  374  of the cavity  161 . Because movement of the cyclone bin assembly  160  is restrained by its engagement with the cradle  360 , this upward motion imparted by the leaf spring  406  is converted into rotation of the cyclone bin assembly  160 , and cradle  360  coupled thereto, about the cradle axis  362 . The movement imparted by the leaf spring  406  may be a relatively small amount, and may result in rotation of the cyclone bin assembly  160  about the cradle axis  362  of between about 0.5 degrees and about 20 degrees, and preferably between about 2 degrees and 10 degrees, and more preferably of about 5 degrees. 
     Alternatively, instead of the latch member  384  engaging the cyclone bin assembly  160  directly, the lock may be configured such that the latch member  384  engages a portion of the cradle  360 , such as, for example, the sidewall  366 . 
     It will be appreciated that the surface cleaning apparatus may utilize only the supplemental biasing member so that the a cyclone bin assembly handle or the like is revealed to enable a user to grasp and remove the cyclone bin assembly from the surface cleaning head or to move the cyclone bin assembly to a removal position. For example, the supplemental biasing member may lift the cyclone bin assembly sufficiently to enable a user to then manually rotate the support platform to the removal position of  FIG. 29 . 
     In the alternate embodiment of  FIGS. 46-49 , instead of pivoting with a cradle, when the cyclone bin assembly  1160  is unlocked it translates laterally upwardly out of the cavity  1161  under the upward biasing force of the leaf spring  1406  ( FIG. 49 ) to a removal position in which the cyclone bin assembly  1160  is slightly higher in the vertical direction, but remains partially nested within the cavity  1161 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 49 , in this example the cyclone bin assembly  1160  is inserted into the cavity by inserting rear tabs  1600  ( FIG. 52 ) into the corresponding rear slots  1602  that are provided in the rear wall  1120  of the cavity  1161 . With the rear tabs  1600  inserted, the cyclone bin assembly  1160  can be pivoted forwardly until the pair of front tabs  1604  are received in corresponding recesses  1608 . When the front tabs  1604  are inserted into the recesses  1608 , the latch member  1384  may engage the corresponding shoulder  1386  ( FIG. 50 ) on the sidewall of the cyclone bin assembly  1160 . 
     To unlock the cyclone bin assembly  1160 , a user may depress the latch  1384 , thereby disengaging it from the shoulder  1386  and allowing the leaf spring to urge the cyclone bin assembly  1160  upward into the removal position ( FIG. 47 ). In the removal position, the front tabs  1604  can function as the cyclone bin assembly handle  1408 , as the tabs  1606  are positioned proud of the recesses  1608  and serve as finger grips allowing a user to grasp the cyclone bin assembly  1160 . 
     In the illustrated example, when moving from the cleaning position to the removal position the cyclone bin assembly  1160  rotates about a generally transverse axis, that is parallel to the cyclone axis  1174 , the suction motor axis  1186 , brush motor axis  1224  and the brush axis  1134 . 
     Optionally, the cyclone bin assembly can moved from the cleaning position to the removal position by pivoting laterally (as shown herein), by pivoting forwardly, or by pivoting rearwardly. Alternatively, or in addition to pivoting, the cyclone bin assembly may also be moved in the removal position by sliding or translating laterally, sliding forwardly, and/or by sliding upwardly. In some embodiments, the cyclone bin assembly may be moved to the removal position using a combination of different movements. For example, the cyclone bin assembly may translate laterally and then pivot upwardly, or the cyclone bin assembly may pivot to a vertical orientation, and then slide upwardly, laterally, forwardly and/or rearwardly. 
     It will be appreciated that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may not use any of the features of the cyclone bin assembly removal and latch mechanism disclosed herein and that, in those embodiments, the removal and latch mechanism may be of various constructions or a removal and latch mechanism may not be used. 
     Cyclone Bin Assembly Handle 
     The following is a description of a cyclone bin assembly handle having various features, any or all of which may be used (individually or in any combination or sub-combination), by itself in any surface cleaning apparatus or in any combination or sub-combination with any other feature or features disclosed herein. 
     In accordance with one feature, the cyclone bin assembly may include a carry handle portion that is exposed and/or made more readily available when the cyclone bin assembly is in the removal position. The handle portion may help increase the overall height of the cyclone bin assembly in the removal position, and preferably may form an uppermost portion of the cyclone bin assembly while it is in the removal position. Providing a handle at a relatively high, and optionally uppermost position on the cyclone bin assembly may help position the handle at an elevation that is relatively comfortable, or is more comfortable, for a user to reach (e.g. to help minimize the amount of bending required by the user). 
     In accordance with another feature, as exemplified in  FIGS. 20 and 21 , the cyclone bin assembly  160  may include a handle  408  that extends transversely (e.g., longitudinally from the laterally inward end of the cyclone bin assembly  160 ). In this configuration, the handle  408  extends longitudinally away from the end wall  290  of the pre-motor filter chamber  280 . 
     In the illustrated example, the handle  408  extends beyond the end wall  290  of the pre-motor filter chamber  280  by a handle length  410 , measured in the direction of the cyclone axis  174 . The handle length  410  may be any suitable length, and may be between about 25% and about 200%, and optionally between about 50% and about 150%, and optionally between about 55% and about 75% of the length  372  between the end wall  290  and the openable door  266 . 
     Optionally, the cyclone bin assembly  160  can be configured so that the cyclone bin assembly  160 , including the handle  408 , extends across almost the most or all of the entire width  338  of the surface cleaning apparatus. Configuring the cyclone bin assembly to extend the width  338  of the surface cleaning apparatus may help increase the height of the cyclone bin assembly  160 , in particular the handle portion  408 , when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is in the removal position, while remaining within the width  338  of the surface cleaning head  102  when in the cleaning position. Optionally, the width of the cyclone bin assembly, including the handle portion (i.e. the sum of lengths  372  and  410 ), can be between about 25% and about 100% of the width  338  of the surface cleaning head  102 , and preferably can be between about 50% and about 100% and more preferably can be between about 80% and about 100% of the width  338 . In the illustrated example, the combined width of the dirt collection chamber, pre-motor filter chamber and handle length (the sum of lengths  372  and  410 ) is generally equal to the width  338  of the surface cleaning head  102 . 
     In accordance with another feature, the handle may be configured to be positioned at an upper portion of the cyclone bin assembly when the cyclone bin assembly is in the removal position and (as exemplified in  FIG. 28 ) may extend upwardly when the cyclone bin assembly is in the removal position. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 20 and 21 , in the illustrated example the handle  408  includes an open frame include a pair of generally longitudinally extending struts  412  extending parallel to the cyclone axis  174 , and a generally perpendicular cross-member  414  which, in the example illustrated forms a hand grip portion of the handle  408 . In the illustrated example, the handle includes two struts  412  that are joined by the cross-member  414  such that the handle  408  defines an internal opening  416 . 
     In accordance with another feature, the handle opening  416  may be configured to at least partially receive another portion of the surface cleaning apparatus when the cyclone bin assembly is in the cleaning position. For example, the opening  416  may be configured to seat around a portion of the surface cleaning head  102  when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is in the cleaning position. This may help facilitate the positioning of the handle so that it is flush with, or recessed into, the top surface of the surface cleaning head when the cyclone bin assembly is in the cleaning position. 
     As exemplified in  FIGS. 3 and 7 , the handle opening  416  may surround the clean air outlet  112 , and specifically optional removable grill  150  and post-motor filter  152 , when the cyclone bin assembly  160  is in the cleaning position. In this configuration, an upper surface of the handle  408  is generally flush with the upper surface of the grill  150 , and both the grill  150  and the upper surface of the handle  408  are recessed into, and form part of, the exposed top face  128  of the surface cleaning head  102 . Alternatively, instead of being an enclosed opening, the handle  408  may include only a single strut and the opening may have one or more open sides. 
     In accordance with another feature, the handle  408  may be movable relative to the cyclone chamber  164 , dirt collection chamber  166  and/or pre-motor filter chamber  280 . For example, the handle  408  may be provided on a movable and/or openable portion of the cyclone bin assembly, such as an openable door or chamber wall. This may help facilitate positioning the handle in a desired location on the cyclone bin assembly while still providing the desired access to the openable portions of the cyclone bin assembly. 
     In accordance with another feature, as exemplified in  FIG. 23 , the handle  408  may be integrally formed with the end wall  290  of the pre-motor filter chamber  280  or formed as a one piece assembly therewith (e.g. separately formed and then secured together such as by an adhesive, welding, a mechanical fastener or the like). As the end wall  290  is pivotal relative to the cyclone chamber  164  and dirt collection chamber  166  to provide access to the pre-motor filter  282 , the handle  408  is also pivotal with the pre-motor filter end wall  290 . 
     It will be appreciated that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may not use any of the features of the cyclone bin assembly handle disclosed herein and that, in those embodiments, the cyclone bin assembly handle may be of various constructions or a cyclone bin assembly handle may not be used. 
     Bleed Valve 
     The following is a description of a bleed air valve that may be used by itself in any surface cleaning apparatus or in any combination or sub-combination with any other feature or features disclosed herein. 
     It is possible that in some instances, the airflow path may become fully or partially clogged. For example, a large object, such as a ball of hair or popcorn, may become lodged anywhere in the airflow path in the surface cleaning head. For further example, the pre-motor filter may become clogged with particulate matter. If this occurs, airflow to the suction motor may be restricted and the suction motor may overheat and burn out. Referring to  FIGS. 39 and 40 , in the illustrated example the surface cleaning apparatus includes a bleed valve  420  that is provided in the surface cleaning head  102 . If a clog occurs in the airflow path, the pressure in the suction motor housing will decrease. The bleed valve is preferably configured to open when the pressure decreases, and allow bleed air to flow through to the suction motor so that it does. 
     The bleed air valve has an outlet that provides bleed air as required to the suction motor, and optionally between the suction motor and the downstream side of a pre-motor filter. An advantage of this configuration is that the bleed air is delivered directly to the suction motor. If the pre-motor filter is dirty or clogged, which may be the reason the bleed valve opens, then the flow of bleed air to the suction motor will not be impeded by the pre-motor filter. 
     In accordance with one feature, the bleed air preferably travels through the bleed valve mechanism in a direction that is generally parallel to and optionally parallel to and in the same direction, as the direction of air flow exiting a cyclone. Alternately, or in addition, the bleed air preferably travels through the bleed valve mechanism in a direction that is generally parallel to and optionally parallel to and in the same direction, as the direction of air entering the suction motor. 
     Alternatively, the bleed valve may extend in a transverse direction with respect to as the direction of air flow exiting a cyclone and/or the direction of air entering the suction motor and the bleed air can exit the bleed valve in a direction that is generally orthogonal to either the direction of air flow exiting the cyclone, the direction of air flow entering the suction motor, or both. 
     Introducing bleed air into the air flow path upstream from the suction motor may also affect the air flow in the air flow path through the surface cleaning head upstream from the bleed air valve, which may in turn affect the suction available at the dirty air inlet. Optionally, the bleed air valve may be manually and/or selectively openable so that a user can purposefully introduce a desired quantity of bleed air into the air flow path. For example, a user may choose to open the bleed air valve, thereby reducing the suction at the dirty air inlet, when the surface cleaning apparatus is used to clean hard flooring surfaces, and may wish to close the bleed air valve, thereby increasing suction at the dirty air inlet, when cleaning carpets or other rough surfaces. 
     As exemplified in  FIG. 13 , the bleed valve  420  may include a primary air inlet  422 , a secondary air inlet  424  and an air outlet  426 . A longitudinally extending primary airflow passageway  428  extends between the primary air inlet  422  and the air outlet  426 , and a secondary airflow passageway  430  extends between the secondary air inlet  424  and the primary airflow passageway  428 . The air outlet  426  is in air flow communication with the downstream header  304  and the downstream face  296  of the pre-motor filter  282 . 
     In the illustrated example, the primary airflow passageway  428  is defined by a sidewall  432  extending along a bleed valve axis  434  ( FIG. 39 ). The sidewall  432  is disposed in the mounting hub  316  and, in the example illustrated, is oriented so that the bleed valve axis  434  is generally transverse to the forward direction of travel, and is parallel to the cyclone axis  174 , suction motor axis  182 , brush motor axis  224  and brush axis  134 . Orienting the bleed valve  420  in this manner may help nest the bleed valve  420  between the wheel axis  320  and the cyclone bin assembly  160 . This may help reduce the overall size of the surface cleaning apparatus. In this configuration, the direction of the flowing through the primary airflow passageway  428  is generally parallel to the direction of the air flow entering the suction motor air inlet  246 , and is generally parallel to the direction of air flowing out of the cyclone air outlet  186  and the direction of air flowing through the pre-motor filter  282 . 
     The air outlet  426  is provided as an opening in the sidewall  432 , which is in communication with the downstream header  304 . In this configuration, the direction of air exiting the bleed valve  420  via the air outlet  426  is generally orthogonal to the direction of the air flow entering the suction motor  162 . Preferably, gaps are provided in the ribs supporting the downstream side  296  of the pre-motor filter  282  to receive air exiting the bleed valve  420  and to distribute the incoming air within the downstream header  304 . 
     The primary air inlet  422  is covered by a pressure-actuated valve member that is configured to automatically open (thereby supplying bleed air) when the pressure in the downstream header falls below a pre-set threshold. When the valve member opens, air from open spaces within the surface cleaning head  102  is drawn into the bleed valve  420 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 39 and 40 , the secondary air inlet  424  is covered using a manually movable cover member  436 . The cover member  436  includes a sealing portion  438  to selectively cover, and seal, the secondary air inlet  424 , an engagement portion, in the form a slider  440 , that can be actuated by a user. 
     In accordance with another feature, a user may move the slider between one or more open positions, in which second air inlet  424  is uncovered by different amounts to allow varying air flow rates into the bleed valve  420  (to the right as illustrated in  FIGS. 39 and 40 ), and a closed position in which the secondary air inlet  424  is sealed to block air flow into the bleed valve  420 . This may allow a user to manually choose to introduce bleed air into the system by opening the secondary air inlet, even if pressure in the downstream header  304  has not fallen below the pre-set threshold. 
     In the alternate embodiment of  FIG. 56 , the bleed valve  1420  includes a primary air inlet  1422  and an air outlet  1426 , which in the example illustrated includes an aperture that is formed on the end wall  1290  of the pre-motor filter chamber  1280 . A longitudinally extending primary airflow passageway  1428  extends between the primary air inlet  1422  and the air outlet  1426 . The air outlet  1426  is in air flow communication with the downstream header  1304  and the downstream face  1296  of the pre-motor filter  1282 . 
     In the illustrated example, the primary airflow passageway  1428  is defined by a sidewall  1432  extending along a bleed valve axis  1434 . In the example illustrated, the bleed valve axis  1434  is generally transverse to the forward direction of travel, and is parallel to the cyclone axis  1174 , suction motor axis  1186 , brush motor axis  1224  and brush axis  1134 . In this configuration, the direction of the flowing through the primary airflow passage  1428  is generally parallel to the direction of the air flow entering the suction motor air inlet  1246 , and is generally parallel to the direction of air flowing out of the cyclone air outlet  1186  and the direction of air flowing through the pre-motor filter  1282 . 
     Referring also to  FIG. 57 , in the illustrated example, the bleed valve  1420  is disposed directly above the brush motor  1214 , and the axes  1422  and  1224  are co-planar. 
     It will be appreciated that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may not use any of the features of the bleed valve disclosed herein and that, in those embodiments, the bleed valve may be of various constructions or a bleed valve may not be used. 
     Handle Swivel Steer Connection 
     Optionally, the upper portion  104  may be steeringly connected to the surface cleaning head  102 . For example, the upper portion  104  may be movably connected to the surface cleaning head in a manner so as allow the surface cleaning head  102  to be steered by rotating or twisting the upper portion  104 . 
     In one embodiment, the pivot may be provided on the mounting hub  316 . For example, as exemplified, the upper portion  104  may include a drive handle  442 , having a hand grip portion  444 , which extends upwardly from the cleaning head. The drive handle  442  is pivotally connected to the surface cleaning head  102  using a yolk member  448  ( FIGS. 11 and 15 ) and may be pivoted between a storage position ( FIG. 1 ) and an inclined floor cleaning position ( FIG. 3 ). The yolk  448  may be pivotally coupled to the mounting hub  316  and is pivotal about a pivot axis  446  ( FIG. 15 ) that is generally orthogonal to the direction of travel of the surface cleaning apparatus  100 . Preferably, the driving handle  442 , yolk  448 , mounting hub  316  and other related components are configured so that the driving handle  442  is generally stable in the storage position, and will remain self-standing when in the storage position. For example, the upper portion  104  may be configured so that when in the storage position, the centre of gravity of the upper portion  104  is disposed generally above, or forward of the rear wheel pivot axis  320  and/or the yolk pivot axis  446 . Alternatively, an external stand or storage device may be used in combination with the surface cleaning apparatus. Alternately, or in addition, a lock may be provided to secure the handle in the storage position. The lock may be a friction lock, a movable locking member or the like. 
     In the illustrated example, the pivot axis  446  is parallel to the cyclone axis  174 , suction motor axis  182 , brush motor axis  224  and brush axis  134 , and is offset rearwardly from each of these axes. The pivot axis  446  is at a higher elevation than the rear wheel axis  320 , and in the example lies in the same vertical plane as the rear wheel axis  320 . 
     Optionally, the drive handle  442  can also be rotatably coupled to the yolk  448 . This may help facilitate steering of the surface cleaning head. In the illustrated example, the yolk  448  includes generally cylindrical journal member  450  ( FIG. 41 ) that is rotatably received within a corresponding housing  452  in the drive handle  442  (see  FIGS. 42A, 42B  and  FIG. 11 ). In this configuration, the drive handle  442  is rotatable relative to the yolk  448  about a rotation axis  454 . In the illustrated example, the rotation axis  454  is not parallel to the longitudinal axis  456  of the drive handle  442 . Instead, the rotation axis  454  is at an angle  458  ( FIG. 17 ) to the longitudinal axis  456 . The angle  458  may be any suitable angle, and may be between about 0 degrees and about 90 degrees, and preferably between about 10 degrees and about 60 degrees, and more preferably between about 20 degrees about 50 degrees, and in the illustrated example is between about 40 degrees and about 45 degrees. Arranging the rotation axis  454  at an angle  458  relative to the handle axis  456  may help facilitate steering of the surface cleaning head  102  when the drive handle  442  is pivoted rearwardly. 
     It will be appreciated that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may not use any of the features of the swivel steering mechanism disclosed herein and that, in those embodiments, the swivel steering mechanism may be of various constructions or a swivel steering mechanism may not be used. 
     Brush Motor Air Inlet 
     The following is a description of a brush motor air inlet that may be used by itself in any surface cleaning apparatus or in any combination or sub-combination with any other feature or features disclosed herein. An advantage of this feature is that cooling air is provided to help cool the brush motor while the surface cleaning apparatus is in use. The cooling air inlet may be configured to draw air from the air flow path upstream or downstream from the air treatment member, or optionally to draw air in from the surrounding environment. 
     In accordance with one feature, one or more cooling air inlets may be provided in a wall of the brush chamber  130 . In accordance with another feature, a plurality of ling air inlets may be provided. The advantages of each of these features is discussed with reference to  FIG. 9 . 
     As exemplified in  FIG. 9 , the surface cleaning head  102  includes a cooling air inlet  460  that is positioned to draw air from within the brush chamber  130 . In this example, the cooling air inlet  460  includes four apertures  462  provided in the rear wall  138  of the brush chamber  130 . The apertures  462  are in air flow communication with the brush motor  214  via an internal conduit provided in the surface cleaning head  102  (see also  FIG. 13 ). The apertures  462  may be sized so that the area of each individual is relatively small and the combined area of all the apertures  462  is sufficient to provide a desired flow of air to the brush motor  214 . Providing multiple relatively small apertures may help provide sufficient air flow while each individual aperture is small enough prevent relatively large debris particles from being drawn into the brush motor. Providing multiple apertures in parallel with each other can provide redundant air flow options, which may also allow some cooling air to reach the brush motor  214  even if one or more of the apertures become blocked with debris. Positioning the cooling air inlet within the brush chamber  130 , and in proximity to the rotating brush  130 , may also allow the brush  132  to dislodge debris from the cooling air inlet  460  while the surface cleaning apparatus is in use. 
     It will be appreciated that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may not use any of the features of the brush motor air inlet disclosed herein and that, in those embodiments, the brush motor air inlet may be of various constructions or a brush motor air inlet may not be used. 
     Cutting Groove 
     The following is a description of a cutting groove that may be used by itself in any surface cleaning apparatus or in any combination or sub-combination with any other feature or features disclosed herein. 
     Brush Chamber Window 
     The following is a description of a brush chamber window that may be used by itself in any surface cleaning apparatus or in any combination or sub-combination with any other feature or features disclosed herein. 
     Referring to  FIG. 16 , in the illustrated example the brush  132  includes cutting groove  468  that extends axially along the length of the brush  132 . The cutting groove  468  is recessed below the surface of the brush  132  and is sized to accommodate a pair of scissors or other cutting tool. This can allow a portion of the scissors to be inserted beneath strands of hair, string or other types of debris that can get wound around the brush  132  during use. The scissors can then be translated along the length of the cutting groove  468  to cut the hair and strings entangled around the brush. Preferably, the brush  132  can be rotated so that the cutting groove  468  can be positioned toward the bottom of the brush  132  to allow a user to access the cutting groove  468  through the dirty air inlet  110  (for example, if a user turns the surface cleaning head  102  over for service) Optionally, the brush chamber  130  may also include one or more transparent regions to allow a user to visually inspect the interior of the brush chamber, including, for example, the brush. In the illustrated example, the brush chamber  130  includes a transparent region in the form of a window  470  ( FIGS. 30 and 31 ) that is provided in the top wall  142 . 
     Height Adjustable Drive Handle 
     The following is a description of an adjustable drive handle that may be used by itself in any surface cleaning apparatus or in any combination or sub-combination with any other feature or features disclosed herein. 
     In accordance with one aspect of the teaching described herein, the upper portion may be adjustable so that its height (i.e. the distance between the surface cleaning head and the hand grip) may be modified by a user. Providing an adjustable upper portion may allow a user to vary the height of the upper portion, such as, for example to accommodate users of different heights. Adjusting the height of the upper portion may also help reduce the overall size of the surface cleaning apparatus. Reducing the overall size of the surface cleaning apparatus may reduce the amount of space required for storage and/or shipping of the surface cleaning apparatus. The upper portion may be configured to be adjustable using any suitable adjustment mechanism. 
     As exemplified in  FIGS. 5 and 44 , drive handle  442  includes a lower section  474  and an upper section  476 . The lower section  474  has a first end  478  movably coupled to the surface cleaning head (e.g., mounting hub  316 ), and an upper end  480  spaced apart from the lower end  478 . The upper section includes a lower end  488  that is coupled to the lower section  474 , and an upper end  490  that includes the hand grip  444  and an optional attachment point  492  for the electrical cord. In the illustrated example, the upper section  476  is sized to fit within the lower section  474 , and is slidable relative to the lower section between an extended position ( FIG. 5 ) and one or more retracted positions ( FIG. 44 ). 
     In the extended position, the upper portion has an extended height  472  that can be any suitable height, and in the example illustrated is between about 50 cm and about 150 cm or more. In extended position the hand grip  444  and optional electrical cord attachment location  492  are spaced apart from the lower section  474 . When in the retracted position, the upper section  474  may be at least partially nested within the lower section  474  and the upper portion height  472  is less than when in the extended position. In the illustrated example, the hand grip  444  and electrical cord attachment location  492  are both positioned closer to the surface cleaning head  102 , and may be generally adjacent the upper end  480  of the lower section  474 , when the upper portion  476  is in the retracted configuration. 
     The upper section  476  may be secured in each of the one or more retracted positions using any suitable mechanism, including, for example, pins, latches, detents, clips, fasteners, friction/interference fit and other mechanisms. Referring to  FIG. 43 , in the illustrated example the upper section  476  includes a pair of detents  494  and the lower section  474  includes a latch  496  that is configured to selectively engage the detents  494 . The latch  496  is releasable so that a user may release the latch  496  and translate the upper section  476  relative to the lower section  474  to alter the height the upper portion  104 . When a desired detent  494  is aligned with the latch  496 , the latch  496  may be re-engaged (and preferably is biased toward the engaged position) thereby securing the upper section  476  and inhibiting further translation of the upper section  476  relative to the lower section  474 . 
     It will be appreciated that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may not use any of the features of the drive handle disclosed herein and that, in those embodiments, the drive handle may be of various constructions or a height adjustable drive handle may not be used. For example, the drive handle need not be provided with electrical cord attachment location  492 . Instead the electrical cord may be connected to the surface cleaning head  102  (e.g., see the alternate embodiment of  FIG. 53  wherein the electrical cord attachment point  492  is provided on the mounting hub  1318 , and wherein, optionally, the electrical cord  502  is not detachable). 
     Detachable Electrical Cord 
     The following is a description of an electrical cord that may be used by itself in any surface cleaning apparatus or in any combination or sub-combination with any other feature or features disclosed herein. 
     In accordance with one aspect of the teaching described herein, power (preferably AC power) may be supplied to the surface cleaning apparatus using the electrical cord. In the illustrated examples, AC power is supplied to the surface cleaning apparatus using an electrical cord that may be connected to a wall socket. The cord may be connected to the apparatus at any suitable location, including, for example on the surface cleaning head itself, or on the upper section. If connected to the upper section, the cord attachment point may be toward an upper end of the upper section (e.g., generally adjacent the hand grip portion), and one or more electrical conductors may extend from the cord attachment point to the surface cleaning head. The electrical conductors may be internal the upper section, or external. Optionally, the electrical conductors may be adjustable, and preferably may be extensible and/or resilient (i.e. such as a coiled electrical cord) so that the electrical conductors can accommodate changes in length of the upper portion without requiring decoupling or reconfiguration, and without interrupting electrical supply to the surface cleaning head. 
     In accordance with one feature, the electrical cord may be connected to an upper portion of the drive handle, such as the upper end of the upper section, adjacent and slightly beneath the hand grip. Connecting the electrical cord on an upper portion of the drive handle, such as adjacent the hand grip may help reduce the likelihood that the cord will interfere with the movement of the surface cleaning head. This positioning may also help make it convenient for a user to hold a portion of the cord with his/her free hand (i.e. the hand that is not holding the hand grip) and to manipulate the cord to help prevent entanglement or other impedances to the vacuuming process. Spacing the electrical cord attachment point away from the surface cleaning head may also help reduce the need to move the electrical cord in close proximity and/or beneath furniture and other objects when the surface cleaning head is moved proximate or under such objects. This may help reduce the chances of the electrical cord becoming tangled or snagged while the surface cleaning apparatus is in use. 
     In accordance with another feature, the electrical cord may be detachably connected to the surface cleaning apparatus. This may allow the cord to be detached for storage, or for an alternative or replacement cord to be connected to the apparatus. This may also allow the cord to be detached when not needed, such as if the surface cleaning apparatus is being powered by an alternative power source. 
     Referring to  FIG. 45 , in the illustrated example, the electrical cord  502  is connected to the upper portion  442  using a detachable connector that provides mechanical and electrical connection between the electrical cord and the surface cleaning apparatus. The connector may be any suitable type of electrical connector, and in the illustrated example includes a first connector portion in the form of a socket  498  on the upper portion  442  that includes pins, and a second connector portion, in the form of a connector  500  that is configured to fit within the socket  498  and receive the pins. 
     It will be appreciated that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may not use any of the features of the electrical cord disclosed herein and that, in those embodiments, the electrical cord may be of various constructions or a detachable electrical cord may not be used. 
     Cordless Mode 
     The following is a description of a cordless operating mode that may be used by itself in any surface cleaning apparatus or in any combination or sub-combination with any other feature or features disclosed herein. 
     Optionally, the surface cleaning apparatus may include one or more portable energy storage devices, such as one or more batteries. The onboard battery may be a DC power source. Providing an onboard portable energy storage device may allow the surface cleaning apparatus to be operated in a cordless mode, in which the surface cleaning apparatus can be powered by the onboard energy storage device and need not be plugged into a wall socket. Configuring the surface cleaning apparatus as a cordless apparatus may be used in combination with any one or more of the other features described herein. 
     Preferably, the on-board energy storage member is one or more batteries that may be sized to fit within the surface cleaning head and is powerful enough to drive the suction motor and optionally the rotating brush motor. Optionally, when operated on DC battery power, as opposed to external AC power, the rotating brush motor and/or the suction motor may operate at a reduced rate or may be otherwise configured to reduce power consumption (e.g., the motor may have dual windings to be operable on both AC and DC power). If required, a converter module can be provided to convert the external power supply into a format (e.g., DC) that is compatible with motor, configured to re-charge the batteries or is otherwise preferred over the native incoming format. 
     The battery may be any suitable type of battery, including a rechargeable battery. Optionally, when the surface cleaning apparatus is electrically connected to an AC power source (e.g., a wall socket), power from the AC source may be used to re-charge the battery, to directly power/drive the suction motor, and/or rotating brush motor or to simultaneously run the suction motor and brush motor and re-charge the battery. In this configuration, when the vacuum is operated the battery in the cleaning head may be charged and the suction motor and brush motor may be driven by AC power and/or a combination of AC and battery power. Then, when the surface cleaning apparatus is electrically decoupled from the AC power source the surface cleaning apparatus can be operated on battery power alone. 
     Alternatively, or in addition to positioning a battery in the surface cleaning head, one or more batteries may be provided within the upper portion and electrically connected to the suction motor and/or other components in the surface cleaning head. Providing at least some batteries in the upper portion may provide extra space to accommodate the batteries, as compared to the space limitations within the surface cleaning head. Positioning batteries in the upper portion may also alter the weight distribution of the surface cleaning apparatus, which may alter the “feel” of the apparatus in a user&#39;s hand. In embodiments where the electrical cord is connected to the upper portion, providing batteries within the upper portion may help facilitate the use of a convenient electrical connection between the incoming power from the electrical cord and the batteries and/or charging equipment. This may help reduce the need to run multiple electrical conductors between the upper portion and the surface cleaning head. 
     Providing batteries in the upper portion may help facilitate access to the batteries for maintenance and/or replacement. 
     It will be appreciated that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may not use any of the features of the cordless mode disclosed herein and that, in those embodiments, the cordless mode may be of other designs or a cordless mode may not be used. 
     Alternate Embodiment with Above Floor Cleaning 
     The following is a description of an all in the head type surface cleaning apparatus that is operable in at least one above floor cleaning mode, that may be used by itself in any surface cleaning apparatus or in any combination or sub-combination with any other feature or features disclosed herein. 
     Optionally, an all in the head type surface cleaning apparatus may be configured to operate in at least one above floor cleaning mode. For example, the surface cleaning apparatus may include an auxiliary dirty air inlet that is provided at the end of a hose, wand, auxiliary cleaning tool or other type of conduit that may be connected in air flow communication with the air treatment member and suction motor for above floor cleaning. The auxiliary dirty air inlet may be used to clean furniture, drapes, walls and other surfaces that are above the floor upon which the surface cleaning head rests. 
     The auxiliary dirty air inlet may be automatically in air flow communication with the air treatment member and suction motor when the auxiliary dirty air inlet is positioned for use (e.g., a wand having a dirty air inlet is removed from a storage position). A valve or other air flow control member may be provided in the air flow path to interrupt the air flow communication between the auxiliary dirty air inlet and the suction motor. The valve may be manually operable or may operate automatically by insertion and/or removal of an above floor cleaning wand or by placing the apparatus in the upright storage position or releasing the apparatus from the upright storage position or by sensors and electrical-driven movement. 
     Referring to  FIG. 46 , another example of an all in the head type surface cleaning apparatus  1100 , having an above floor cleaning mode, is illustrated. The surface cleaning apparatus  1100  is generally similar to the surface cleaning apparatus  100 , and analogous features are identified using like reference characters indexed by  1000 . Some or all of the features described in association with the surface cleaning apparatus  100  can be used alone, or in combination with each other in the surface cleaning apparatus  1100 . Similarly, the above floor cleaning aspects of cleaning apparatus  1100  may optionally be incorporated into surface cleaning apparatus  100 . 
     In accordance with one feature, a cyclone chamber may be provided with dual air inlets, one connectable in air flow communication with the brush chamber and one connectable in air flow communication with an auxiliary dirty air inlet. 
     As exemplified in  FIGS. 55 and 56 , the cyclone chamber  1164  may include an air inlet  1184  with an upstream or inlet end  1190  that is connectable to an air outlet  1192  ( FIG. 49 ) in the rear wall  1138  of the brush chamber  1130 . The cyclone air inlet  1184  also includes a downstream end  1194  that includes an opening formed in the cyclone sidewall  1173 , and a connecting portion  1196  extending through the dirt collection chamber  1166  between the upstream and downstream ends  1190  and  1194 . The air flow connection between the brush chamber outlet  1192  and the cyclone chamber  1164  can form a first air flow path, which is a portion of the overall air flow path connecting the dirty air inlet  1110  to the clean air outlet  1112 . In addition to the air inlet  1184 , the cyclone chamber  1164  may also include an auxiliary air inlet  1184   b  with an upstream or inlet end  1190   b  that is connectable to a downstream end  1628  of a duct  1626  that is provided in the mounting hub  1316 . The cyclone air inlet  1184   b  also includes a downstream end  1194   b  that includes an opening formed in the cyclone sidewall  1173   b , and a connecting portion  1196   b  extending through the mounting hub  1314 , between the upstream and downstream ends  1190   b  and  1194   b.    
     Referring to  FIGS. 46 and 58 , in the illustrated embodiment the upper portion  1140  includes a rigid wand  1620  that is slidably received within a flexible hose  1622 . The wand  1620  has a lower, downstream end  1624  that can be coupled to the duct  1626  that extends through the mounting hub  1316 , whereby the upper portion  1104  and the connection of the upper portion to the surface cleaning head is sufficiently rigid to function as the driving handle  1442 , including the hand grip  1444 , to maneuver the surface cleaning apparatus ( FIG. 58 ). 
     Referring also to  FIG. 56 , the wand  1620  has an upstream end  1630  that is spaced apart from the downstream end  1624 . A cap  1632  is provided on the upper portion  1104 , e.g., positioned on the hand grip  1444 , so that the cap  1632  may be adjacent the upstream end  1630  when the wand  1620  is coupled to the duct  1626 . When the cap  1632  is closed (as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 49 and 58 ) it seals the upper end of the wand  1620 . When the cap  1632  is open, air flow through the wand  1620  is permitted. In accordance with such an embodiment, wand  1620  may always be in air flow communication with the suction motor and a valve is not required. Instead, cap may seal the upstream end of wand  1620 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 59 , when the cap  1632  is opened the wand  1620  can be pulled out of the surrounding hose  1622 . In this configuration, the lower end  1624  of the wand  1620  is decoupled from the duct  1626 , but the surrounding hose  1622  remains connected and provides the air flow connection between the lower end  1624  of the wand  1620  and the duct  1626  (and ultimately to the air inlet  1184   b ). With the wand  1620  detached, the upper portion  1104  can become flexible, and the wand  1620  may be moved away from the surface cleaning head  1102  while air flow communication is preserved by the hose  1622 . Optionally, the hose  1622  may be extensible. This may help facilitate moving the hose  1622  and wand  1620  to a variety of above floor cleaning locations. 
     To operate the surface cleaning apparatus  1100  in a floor cleaning mode, the wand  1620  may be inserted within the hose  1622  so that the lower end  1624  of the wand  1620  engages the duct  1626 . The cap  1632  may then be closed to seal the upper end of the wand  1620 , thereby eliminating or substantially eliminating air flow through the upper portion and fluidly isolating the auxiliary air inlet  1184   b  from the surrounding environment. Restricting the air flow through the wand  1620  in the floor cleaning mode may help direct all or a majority of the air flow/suction generated by the suction motor  1162  through the primary dirty air inlet  1110 . 
     To operate the surface cleaning apparatus  1100  in an above floor cleaning mode, the cap  1632  may be opened and the wand  1620  may be at least partially extracted from the hose  1622 . In this configuration, the upstream end  1630  of the wand  1620  functions as an auxiliary dirty air inlet  1110   b , that is in air flow communication with the auxiliary cyclone air inlet  1184   b.    
     Optionally, when in the above floor cleaning mode, both dirty air inlets  1110  and  1110   b  may remain in air flow communication with the suction motor  1162 . In such an arrangement, the suction generated by the suction motor  1162  may be divided between the dirty air inlets  1110  and  1110   b . Alternatively, a valve or other blocking member may be used to interrupt the air flow communication between the dirty air inlet  1110  and the suction motor  1162  when operating in the above floor cleaning mode. 
     As exemplified in  FIGS. 54A and 54B , a valve to close the air flow path from the brush chamber may include a flow restricting member that includes a blocker  1634  connected to a slider  1636 . The flow restricting member may be configured so that a user may translate the slider  1636 , e.g., in the transverse direction, to move the blocker  1634  between a deployed position ( FIG. 54A ) and a retracted position ( FIG. 54B ). In the deployed position the blocker  1634  seals the opening  1192  in the back wall  1138  of the brush chamber  1130 , thereby interrupting the air flow communication between the upstream end  1190  of the cyclone air inlet  1184  and the dirty air inlet  1110 . In the retracted position, the blocker  1634  is retracted within the back wall  1138  of the brush chamber  1130  and the upstream end  1190  of the cyclone air inlet  1184  is in air flow communication with the dirty air inlet  1110 . 
     It will be appreciated that any valve member know in the art may be used to close the air flow path instead of or in addition to blocker  1634 . The valve may be operated manually or automatically upon reconfiguration of the surface cleaning apparatus to an above floor cleaning mode. 
     In another embodiment, the cyclone chamber, e.g., the cyclone bin assembly may have a single air inlet. In such a case, the cyclone bin assembly may be movable or repositionable (e.g., translatable sideways) to selectively align the cyclone bin assembly air inlet with an outlet of the air flow path from the brush motor or the air flow path from the above floor cleaning wand  1620 . 
     It will be appreciated that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may not use any of the features of the above floor cleaning mode disclosed herein and that, in those embodiments, the above floor cleaning mode may be of other designs or an above floor cleaning mode may not be used. 
     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. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments and examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.