Patent Description:
Surface treatment apparatus (e.g., vacuum cleaners) may include multiple accessories capable of improving the performance and/or usability of the surface treatment apparatus when conducting a specific cleaning operation. For example, a vacuum cleaner may include a brush attachment, a crevice attachment, a wand, and/or any other accessory. In some cases, each accessory is coupled to the surface treatment apparatus such that an operator can interchange accessories during operation of the surface cleaning apparatus. However, as the number of accessories increases, it may become more difficult to store the accessories on the surface treatment apparatus.

An example accessory mount is described in <CIT>, the accessory mount includes a clamp with a threaded shank attached to a clamp knob for securing together upper and lower clamp bodies and a means for removably mounting one or more accessories such as a detachable and angularly adjustable hand grip on one of the bodies. Mating rosettes pivotably mount the hand grip to one of the bodies. An attachment such as a wheeled support with a wheel rotatably supported at a bottom end of a strut includes a connector removably mounting the strut to the hand grip. The accessories include a mounting block carrying at least one nozzle tip holder and/or a flashlight holder. Nozzle tip holder includes a bore circumscribing an axis and extending through the holder and flexible spiral holding fingers extending radially inwardly and circumferentially into the bore from a rim around the bore.

Features and advantages of the claimed subject matter will be apparent from the following detailed description of embodiments consistent therewith, which description should be considered with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:.

The present invention is generally directed to a surface treatment apparatus capable of being coupled to one or more accessories, each having at least two operational states. The surface treatment apparatus includes a toggle (e.g., a trigger or a button) that, when actuated, causes an accessory coupled to the surface treatment apparatus to transition between operational states. By positioning the toggle on the surface treatment apparatus (instead of, for example, on the accessory) an operator is able to change the operational state of the accessory without having to directly manipulate (e.g., touch) the accessory. In some instances, this may prevent an operator from having to bend over and directly manipulate the accessory. Further, by utilizing accessories having at least two operational states, it may be possible to carry fewer accessories without having to sacrifice functionality.

<FIG> shows an example of a surface treatment apparatus <NUM>. The surface treatment apparatus <NUM> includes a vacuum chamber <NUM> fluidly coupled to an inlet <NUM>. The vacuum chamber <NUM> includes a suction motor <NUM> and a debris canister <NUM>. The suction motor <NUM> draws air carrying debris (e.g., dust) through the inlet <NUM> into the debris canister <NUM>. When the air enters the debris canister <NUM>, at least a portion of the debris entrained within the air is deposited in the debris canister <NUM>. The remaining air is then expelled from the vacuum chamber <NUM> via an air outlet.

A coupling <NUM> is provided proximate the inlet <NUM> (e.g., the coupling <NUM> may extend around at least a portion of the inlet <NUM>) and is configured to couple to, for example, an accessory <NUM>. As shown, an actuator <NUM> is proximate the coupling (e.g., the coupling <NUM> may include the actuator <NUM>), which is configured to engage at least a portion of the accessory <NUM>, when coupled to the coupling <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> transitions between a first state and a second state in response to the actuation of a toggle <NUM> (e.g., a button or a trigger). The movement of the actuator <NUM> causes a corresponding movement in the accessory <NUM>. For example, movement of the actuator <NUM> may cause the accessory <NUM> to transition from a first operational state to a second operational state such that the performance of the accessory <NUM> may be changed. Therefore, the accessory <NUM> may generally be described as transitioning between operational states in response to the actuation of the toggle <NUM>.

The actuator <NUM> may be positioned at any location relative to the coupling <NUM>. When in an unactuated state, the actuator <NUM> may extend from the coupling <NUM> by an extension distance <NUM> that measures in a range of, for example, <NUM> millimeters (mm) to <NUM>. In some instances, when in the unactuated state, the actuator <NUM> may be recessed relative to the coupling <NUM>. When in an actuated state, the extension distance <NUM> may
measure in a range of, for example, <NUM> to <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> may be spaced apart from a central axis <NUM> of the inlet <NUM> by a separation distance <NUM> measuring in a range of, for example, <NUM> to <NUM>. A maximum width of the actuator <NUM> may measure in a range of, for example, <NUM> to <NUM>.

The toggle <NUM> may be configured as latching or non-latching. When the toggle <NUM> is latching the accessory <NUM> only transitions between operational states when the toggle <NUM> is transitioned from a first state (e.g., a first position) to a second state (e.g., a second position). When the toggle <NUM> is configured as non-latching, the accessory <NUM> transitions between operational states in response to the toggle <NUM> transitioning from the first state and the second state and from the second state to the first state.

As shown, the toggle <NUM> is proximate a handle <NUM> (e.g., the handle <NUM> may be on an opposing side of the vacuum chamber <NUM> relative to the inlet <NUM>). For example, the toggle <NUM> may be coupled to the handle <NUM> and/or the vacuum chamber <NUM>. As such, an operator of the surface treatment apparatus <NUM> is able to change an operational state of the accessory <NUM> without having to directly manipulate (e.g., touch) the accessory <NUM>. In some instances, a plurality of accessories <NUM>, each having at least two operational states, are configured to cooperate with the coupling <NUM> and the actuator <NUM>.

The accessory <NUM> may include, for example, a crevice tool, a brush, and/or a wand. As will be discussed further herein, the accessory <NUM> has at least two operational states. This may allow a single accessory to perform multiple functions, allowing an operator of the surface treatment apparatus <NUM> to carry fewer accessories to perform a given cleaning task. In some instances, a plurality of accessories may be coupled to the surface treatment apparatus <NUM>. For example, a wand may fluidly couple a crevice tool to the surface treatment apparatus <NUM>, wherein at least one of the wand or the crevice tool have a plurality of operational states.

<FIG> shows a cross-sectional schematic example of a toggle assembly <NUM> engaging at least a portion of the accessory <NUM>. As shown, the toggle assembly <NUM> includes the toggle <NUM> and the actuator <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> extends from the toggle <NUM> in a direction of the accessory <NUM>. Actuation of the toggle <NUM> causes the actuator <NUM> to move along an actuation axis <NUM> (e.g., a longitudinal axis) in a direction towards or away from the accessory <NUM>. Movement of the actuator <NUM> along the actuation axis <NUM> causes a corresponding movement in the accessory <NUM> such that the accessory <NUM> transitions between the first and second operational states. For example, the accessory <NUM> may include a moveable component that moves in response to movement of the actuator <NUM> along the actuation axis <NUM>. The movement of the moveable component may cause the accessory <NUM> to transition between first and second operational states.

<FIG> shows an example of a handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, which may be an example of the surface treatment apparatus <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown, the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> includes a vacuum chamber <NUM> having a debris canister <NUM> and an actuator <NUM> capable of movement between a first and second state. An accessory <NUM>, which may be an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>, is coupled to the vacuum chamber <NUM> at a coupling <NUM> such that air can be drawn from an inlet of the accessory <NUM> into the debris canister <NUM>. In some instances, the accessory <NUM> is directly coupled to the coupling <NUM>. In other instances, the accessory <NUM> is not directly coupled to the coupling <NUM>. For example, a wand may be disposed between the accessory <NUM> and the coupling <NUM>. In these instances, the wand and/or the accessory <NUM> may have two or more operational states.

<FIG> show an example of the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. As shown, the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> can include a toggle <NUM> (e.g., a depressible button or a trigger). For purposes of clarity the toggle <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG> as a trigger, however, the toggle <NUM> may also be, for example, a button configured to be depressed. The toggle <NUM> may be actuated between a first state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) and a second state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>). Actuation of the toggle <NUM> causes a corresponding movement of the actuator <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> may engage (e.g., contact) at least a portion of an accessory <NUM>. The accessory <NUM> can be configured to transition between operation states (e.g., between a crevice tool <NUM> and a brush tool <NUM>). The accessory <NUM> may be an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>. In some instances, the actuator <NUM> may engage (e.g., contact) at least a portion of an intermediary accessory extending between the accessory <NUM> and the actuator <NUM>. In these instances, the intermediary accessory may also have a plurality of operational states.

The toggle <NUM> may generally be described as being either latching or non-latching. When the toggle <NUM> is latching, the accessory <NUM> transitions between the brush tool <NUM> and the crevice tool <NUM> only when the toggle is transitioned, for example, from the first state to the second state. When the toggle <NUM> is non-latching, the accessory <NUM> transitions between the brush tool <NUM> and the crevice tool <NUM> when the toggle <NUM> is transitioned, for example, from the first state to the second state and from the second state to the first state.

The accessory <NUM> is capable of transitioning between a crevice tool <NUM> and a brush tool <NUM> in response to the actuation of the toggle <NUM>. As shown, the brush tool <NUM> slideably engages the crevice tool <NUM> such that the brush tool <NUM> is capable of transitioning between a first state (e.g., a stored state) and second state (e.g., a use state). For example, in response to actuating the toggle <NUM>, the brush tool <NUM> slides along the crevice tool <NUM> from a proximal end <NUM> (e.g., an end closest an operator of the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>) of the crevice tool <NUM> to a distal end <NUM> (e.g., an end closest to a surface to be cleaned) of the crevice tool <NUM> such that the brush tool <NUM> is capable of engaging (e.g., contacting) a surface <NUM> (e.g., a floor).

<FIG> show an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown, the accessory <NUM> includes a rack and pinion system <NUM>. The rack and pinion system <NUM> includes a first rack <NUM> that moves along a longitudinal axis <NUM> of the accessory <NUM> in response to the toggle <NUM> being transitioned, for example, from the first state to the second state. For example, when the toggle <NUM> is transitioned from the first state to the second state, the toggle <NUM> may cause the actuator <NUM> to move along the longitudinal axis <NUM> such that the actuator <NUM> engages (e.g., contacts) the first rack <NUM>, causing the first rack <NUM> to move. In some instances, the actuator <NUM> is detachably coupled to the first rack <NUM> such that the accessory <NUM> can be removed from the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. Additionally, or alternatively, a biasing mechanism may be provided that urges the first rack <NUM> in a direction of the actuator <NUM>. The biasing mechanism may be, for example, a spring (e.g., a tension spring, a torsion spring, a compression spring, and/or any other suitable spring), an elastic material (e.g., a rubber), and/or any other suitable biasing mechanism.

As the first rack <NUM> moves along the longitudinal axis <NUM>, the first rack <NUM> causes a first pinion <NUM> to rotate. The rotation of the first pinion <NUM> results in a corresponding rotation of a second pinion <NUM>. The rotation of the second pinion <NUM> causes a second rack <NUM> to move along the longitudinal axis <NUM>. The movement of the second rack <NUM> causes the brush tool <NUM> to slide along the crevice tool <NUM>. Therefore, the second rack <NUM> is coupled to the brush tool <NUM> such that the brush tool <NUM> moves with the second rack <NUM>.

As shown, the first pinion <NUM> has a diameter that measures less than a diameter of the second pinion <NUM>. In some instances, the first and second pinions <NUM> and <NUM> form a unitary body. In other instances, the first and second pinions <NUM> and <NUM> are coupled to each other using, for example, an adhesive, a press-fit, a snap-fit, a threaded fastener (e.g., a bolt or a screw), and/or any other suitable form of coupling.

<FIG> show an accessory <NUM>, which may be an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>, having a brush <NUM> extending from a collar <NUM>. The collar <NUM> is adjustable relative to the brush <NUM> such that a length <NUM> of the brush <NUM> extending from the collar <NUM> can be adjusted. As the length <NUM> of the brush <NUM> extending from the collar <NUM> decreases, the stiffness of the brush <NUM> increases. Conversely, as the length <NUM> of the brush <NUM> increases, the stiffness of the brush <NUM> decreases.

In some instances, the collar <NUM> slides along the brush <NUM> in response to the actuation of the toggle <NUM>, which may be either latching or non-latching. For example, when the toggle <NUM> is transitioned from the first state to the second state, the collar <NUM> transitions from a first state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) to a second state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>). In other words, the collar <NUM> slides from a proximal end <NUM> (e.g., an end closest an operator of the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>) of the brush <NUM> to a distal end <NUM> of the brush <NUM> (e.g., an end closest to a surface to be cleaned). As the collar <NUM> approaches the distal end <NUM> of the brush <NUM>, the length <NUM> of the brush <NUM> extending from the collar <NUM> decreases, increasing the stiffness of the brush <NUM>.

<FIG> show a cross-sectional view of an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown, the collar <NUM> transitions from a first state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) to a second state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) in response to a plunger <NUM> moving along a longitudinal axis <NUM> of the accessory <NUM>. Movement of the plunger <NUM> along the longitudinal axis <NUM> causes a pivot arm <NUM> to pivot about a pivot point <NUM> such that the pivotal movement causes a corresponding movement of a translational arm <NUM> along the longitudinal axis <NUM>. As shown, the translational arm <NUM> is coupled to the collar <NUM> such that movement of the translational arm <NUM> along the longitudinal axis <NUM> causes a corresponding movement of the collar <NUM> along the longitudinal axis <NUM>.

As also shown, the translational arm <NUM> is coupled to the pivot arm <NUM>. For example, the pivot arm <NUM> may include a slot <NUM> for receiving a corresponding protrusion <NUM> extending from the translational arm <NUM>. As the pivot arm <NUM> pivots about the pivot point <NUM>, the protrusion <NUM> slides within the slot <NUM>. In some instances, a portion of the pivot arm <NUM> is received within a track <NUM>. The track <NUM> may guide the pivot arm <NUM> as the pivot arm <NUM> pivots about the pivot point <NUM>.

In some instances, when the collar <NUM> is in the first state, an engagement surface <NUM> of the plunger <NUM> is transverse to the pivot arm <NUM> and an engagement surface <NUM> of the translational arm <NUM> is substantially parallel to the pivot arm <NUM>. When the collar <NUM> is in the second state, the engagement surface <NUM> of the plunger <NUM> may be substantially parallel to the pivot arm <NUM> and the engagement surface <NUM> of the translational arm <NUM> may be transverse to the pivot arm <NUM>. The engagement surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> are configured to at least partially engage at least a portion of the pivot arm <NUM> in response to actuation of the toggle <NUM>.

The plunger <NUM> may engage (e.g., contact) the actuator <NUM> of the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> is configured to move along the longitudinal axis <NUM> in response to, for example, the toggle <NUM> transitioning from the first state to the second state. As the actuator <NUM> moves, the actuator <NUM> causes the plunger <NUM> to move. In some instances, the plunger <NUM> may be coupled to the actuator <NUM> using, for example, an adhesive, a press-fit, a snap-fit, a threaded fastener (e.g., a bolt or a screw), and/or any other suitable form of coupling. In some instances, the actuator <NUM> is detachably coupled to the plunger <NUM> such that the accessory <NUM> can be removed from the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. In some instances, a biasing mechanism may be provided that urges the plunger <NUM> in a direction of the actuator <NUM>. The biasing mechanism may be, for example, a spring (e.g., a tension spring, a torsion spring, a compression spring, and/or any other suitable spring), an elastic material (e.g., a rubber), and/or any other suitable biasing mechanism. In some instances, the accessory <NUM> may not include the plunger <NUM> and the actuator <NUM> may engage (e.g., contact) the pivot arm <NUM>.

<FIG> show an example of a crevice tool accessory <NUM>, which may be an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown, the crevice tool accessory <NUM> transitions between a first state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) and a second state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>). The crevice tool accessory <NUM> transitions from the first state to the second state in response to, for example, the actuation of the toggle <NUM>, which may be either latching or non-latching. As the crevice tool accessory <NUM> transitions from the first state to the second state an inlet <NUM> to the crevice tool accessory <NUM> expands from an unexpanded width <NUM> to an expanded width <NUM>. As such, it may become easier for larger debris to be drawn into the crevice tool accessory <NUM>.

A ratio of a measure of the expanded width <NUM> to a measure of the unexpanded width <NUM> may be, for example, in a range of <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>. By way of further example, a ratio of a measure of the expanded width <NUM> to a measure of the unexpanded width <NUM> may be in a range of <NUM>:<NUM> to <NUM>:<NUM>. By way of even further example, a ratio of a measure of the expanded width <NUM> to a measure of the unexpanded width <NUM> may be <NUM>:<NUM>.

In some instances, the crevice tool accessory <NUM> includes a hinge <NUM> such that at least a portion of the crevice tool accessory <NUM> pivots about a pivot axis <NUM> of the hinge <NUM>. By pivoting the crevice tool accessory <NUM> about the pivot axis <NUM>, a length <NUM> of the crevice tool accessory <NUM> may be reduced. When the length <NUM> is reduced, the crevice tool accessory <NUM> may expose a secondary air inlet such that debris may still be drawn into the crevice tool accessory <NUM>. In some instances, when the length <NUM> is reduced, an additional accessory may be coupled to the crevice tool accessory <NUM>.

<FIG> show perspective views of an accessory <NUM>, which may be an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>. The accessory <NUM> includes a cleaning head <NUM> having bristles <NUM>. The cleaning head <NUM> may be capable of rotation in response to the actuation of, for example, the toggle <NUM> from the first state to the second state. The toggle <NUM> may be latching or non-latching. <FIG> shows the accessory <NUM> in a first state, <FIG> shows the accessory <NUM> transitioning from the first to a second state, and <FIG> shows the accessory <NUM> in the second state. As shown, in <FIG>, when the toggle <NUM> is transitioned from, for example, the first state to the second state, the actuator <NUM> engages a pivot arm <NUM> such that, as the pivot arm <NUM> pivots, the cleaning head <NUM> rotates. The pivot arm <NUM> may be coupled to a biasing mechanism <NUM> such that the pivot arm <NUM> is urged in a direction of the actuator <NUM>. The biasing mechanism <NUM> may be, for example, a spring (e.g., a tension spring, a torsion spring, a compression spring, and/or any other suitable spring), an elastic material (e.g., a rubber), and/or any other suitable biasing mechanism.

In some instances, the cleaning head <NUM> rotates only in the clockwise direction or only in the counter-clockwise direction. For example, each time the toggle <NUM> is transitioned from the first state to the second state, the cleaning head <NUM> rotates a predetermined distance in only one of the clockwise direction or the counter-clockwise direction (e.g., <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, and/or any other suitable rotation angle). In other instances, the cleaning head <NUM> rotates in both the clockwise direction and the counter-clockwise direction.

In some instances, the cleaning head <NUM> may be detachable from the accessory <NUM> (e.g., as shown in <FIG>). When the cleaning head <NUM> is removed, the accessory <NUM> may be used without bristles <NUM>. Additionally, or alternatively, in some instances, actuation of the toggle <NUM> may cause bristles <NUM> extending from the cleaning head <NUM> to transition between extended and retracted states.

<FIG> shows a schematic perspective view of a handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, which may be an example of the surface treatment apparatus <NUM> of <FIG> having an accessory <NUM> coupled thereto, which may be an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown, the accessory <NUM> defines an extension channel <NUM> having a proximal end <NUM> removably coupled to a coupling <NUM> of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> and a distal end <NUM> having an inlet <NUM> for suctioning air therethrough. The accessory <NUM> can include an actuatable bleed valve <NUM> that selectively fluidly couples the extension channel <NUM> to a surrounding environment. As such, when the bleed valve <NUM> is transitioned towards an open state (i.e., a position wherein the bleed valve <NUM> fluidly couples the extension channel <NUM> to the surrounding environment), an amount of suction at the inlet <NUM> may be reduced. The reduced suction may, for example, allow a user of the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> to more easily clean one or more blinds.

The actuatable bleed valve <NUM> can be disposed along the accessory <NUM> at a location between the proximal and distal ends <NUM> and <NUM>. For example, the actuatable bleed valve <NUM> can be positioned in a distal end region <NUM>. The distal end region <NUM> can extend from the distal end <NUM> to a midpoint point <NUM> of the accessory <NUM>.

The bleed valve <NUM> can be transitioned between open and closed states in response to, for example, the actuation of a toggle <NUM>. As shown, the toggle <NUM> is disposed proximate a handle <NUM> of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. As such, a user of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> can actuate the toggle <NUM> while continuing to use the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. The toggle <NUM> can be, for example, a button configured to be depressed (e.g., in a direction away from the user) or a trigger configured to be pulled (e.g., in a direction toward the user).

<FIG> show a schematic cross-sectional view of a bleed valve <NUM>, which may be an example of the bleed valve <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown, the bleed valve <NUM> includes a bleed valve body <NUM> having a bleed valve opening <NUM> extending therethrough. When the bleed valve <NUM> is in the closed state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) the valve body <NUM> extends over a channel opening <NUM> defined in the accessory <NUM> such that the bleed valve opening <NUM> is not aligned with the channel opening <NUM>. As shown, when the bleed valve <NUM> is in the closed state, air flows through the inlet <NUM> according to a first flow path <NUM>. When the bleed valve <NUM> is in the open state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>), the bleed valve body <NUM> is moved relative to an accessory body <NUM> of the accessory <NUM> such that the bleed valve opening <NUM> aligns with the channel opening <NUM>, fluidly coupling the extension channel <NUM> to the surrounding environment via the bleed valve <NUM>. As shown, when the bleed valve <NUM> is in the open state air flows through the inlet <NUM> according to the first flow path <NUM> and through the bleed valve <NUM> according to a second flow path <NUM>.

The bleed valve body <NUM> is moved relative to the accessory body <NUM> of the accessory <NUM> in response to a movement of an actuator <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> engages (e.g., contacts) the bleed valve body <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> is configured to move in response to, for example, actuation of the toggle <NUM> (<FIG>). As shown, a biasing mechanism <NUM> can be provided to urge the bleed valve body <NUM> towards the closed state. As such, when the actuator <NUM> returns to an unactuated state (e.g., comes out of engagement with the bleed valve body <NUM>), the bleed valve body <NUM> is urged towards the closed state. The biasing mechanism <NUM> may be, for example, a spring (e.g., a tension spring, a torsion spring, a compression spring, and/or any other suitable spring), an elastic material (e.g., a rubber), and/or any other suitable biasing mechanism.

<FIG> show a schematic cross-sectional view of a bleed valve <NUM>, which may be an example of the bleed valve <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown, the bleed valve <NUM> includes a bleed valve body <NUM>. When the bleed valve <NUM> is in the closed state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>), the bleed valve body <NUM> extends over a channel opening <NUM> defined in the accessory <NUM>. As shown, when the bleed valve <NUM> is in the closed state, air flows through the inlet <NUM> according to a first flow path <NUM>. When the bleed valve <NUM> is in the open state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>), the bleed valve body <NUM> is moved relative to an accessory body <NUM> of the accessory <NUM> such that the bleed valve body <NUM> no longer extends over the channel opening <NUM>. As such, the extension channel <NUM> is fluidly coupled to the surrounding environment via the bleed valve <NUM>. As shown, when the bleed valve <NUM> is in the open state air flows through the inlet <NUM> according to the first flow path <NUM> and through the bleed valve according to a second flow path <NUM>.

The bleed valve body <NUM> is moved relative to the accessory body <NUM> of the accessory <NUM> in response to a movement of an actuator <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> engages (e.g., contacts) a pivot arm <NUM> pivotally coupled to the accessory body <NUM>. The pivot arm <NUM> engages (e.g., contacts) the bleed valve body <NUM> such that the bleed valve body <NUM> is urged towards the open state in response to the pivotal movement of the pivot arm <NUM>. The bleed valve body <NUM> can be biased towards the closed state using a biasing mechanism <NUM>. As such, when the actuator <NUM> returns to an unactuated state (e.g., comes out of engagement with the pivot arm <NUM>), the bleed valve body <NUM> is urged towards the closed state. The biasing mechanism <NUM> may be, for example, a spring (e.g., a tension spring, a torsion spring, a compression spring, and/or any other suitable spring), an elastic material (e.g., a rubber), and/or any other suitable biasing mechanism.

<FIG> show a handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, which may be an example of the surface treatment apparatus <NUM> of <FIG> having an accessory <NUM> coupled thereto, which may be an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>. The accessory <NUM> can include a crevice tool <NUM> and a brush tool <NUM> slideably coupled to the crevice tool <NUM>. The brush tool <NUM> can slide between a proximal end region <NUM> of the crevice tool <NUM> and a distal end region <NUM> of the crevice tool <NUM>. When at the distal end region <NUM> of the crevice tool <NUM>, the brush tool <NUM> can be used to clean a surface (e.g., a floor).

The accessory <NUM> can also include a scissor mechanism <NUM>. A first portion of the scissor mechanism <NUM> can be coupled to the proximal end region <NUM> of the crevice tool <NUM> and a second portion of the scissor mechanism <NUM> can be coupled to the brush tool <NUM>. As such, when the scissor mechanism <NUM> transitions between a retracted state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) and an extended state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>), the brush tool <NUM> slides along the crevice tool <NUM> between a stored state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) and a use state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>). Therefore, the accessory <NUM> can generally be described as changing operational states (e.g., between a crevice accessory and a brush accessory) in response to the brush tool <NUM> transitioning between stored and use states.

The scissor mechanism <NUM> can be caused to transition between the retracted state and the extended state in response to actuation of a toggle <NUM>. A biasing mechanism <NUM> can be provided to urge the scissor mechanism <NUM> towards the retracted state. For example, when the toggle <NUM> is a non-latching toggle, the biasing mechanism <NUM> may cause the scissor mechanism <NUM> to transition from the extended state to the retracted state in response to a user releasing the toggle <NUM>. The biasing mechanism <NUM> may be, for example, a spring (e.g., a tension spring, a torsion spring, a compression spring, and/or any other suitable spring), an elastic material (e.g., a rubber), and/or any other suitable biasing mechanism.

<FIG> show perspective views of an accessory <NUM>, which may be an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown, the accessory <NUM> includes a crevice tool <NUM> and a brush tool <NUM>. The brush tool <NUM> includes a brush body <NUM> and one or more bristles <NUM> extending from the brush body <NUM>. The brush body <NUM> extends around a crevice tool body <NUM>. The brush tool <NUM> is configured to slideably engage the crevice tool body <NUM> such that the brush tool <NUM> can transition between a stored state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) and a use state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>). Therefore, the accessory <NUM> can generally be described as changing operational states (e.g., between a crevice accessory and a brush accessory) in response to the brush tool <NUM> transitioning between stored and use states. The brush tool <NUM> can transition between the stored state and the use state in response to a user changing an orientation of the accessory <NUM> such that gravity urges the brush tool <NUM> to the desired state.

The brush body <NUM> can include a latch <NUM> configured to engage the crevice tool <NUM> such that the brush tool <NUM> can selectively transition between the stored state and the use state. The latch <NUM> can be configured to engage the crevice tool <NUM> such that the brush tool <NUM> is retained at a desired state.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the accessory <NUM> without the bristles <NUM> extending from the brush body <NUM>. As shown, the crevice tool body <NUM> defines an air channel <NUM> through which air urged and an actuator channel <NUM> for receiving a moveable bar <NUM>. The moveable bar <NUM> includes a storage catch <NUM> and a use catch <NUM>. The storage and use catches <NUM> and <NUM> are configured to engage a retaining bar <NUM> of the latch <NUM> such that the brush body <NUM> is retained in a respective one of the stored state or the use state.

The moveable bar <NUM> is configured to move in a direction parallel to a crevice tool longitudinal axis <NUM>. As the moveable bar <NUM> is urged towards a distal end <NUM> of the crevice tool body <NUM>, the storage and use catches <NUM> and <NUM> are urged into the actuator channel <NUM> such that the retaining bar <NUM> does not engage the storage catch <NUM> or the use catch <NUM>. As such, the brush body <NUM> is able to slide relative to the crevice tool body <NUM>. As the moveable bar <NUM> is urged towards a proximal end <NUM> of the crevice tool body <NUM>, the storage and use catches <NUM> and <NUM> are urged out of the actuator channel <NUM> such that the retaining bar <NUM> engages a respective one of the storage catch <NUM> or the use catch <NUM>. Therefore, moving the moveable bar <NUM> in a direction of the distal end <NUM> of the crevice tool body <NUM> allows the brush body <NUM> to transition between the stored and use states and moving the moveable bar <NUM> in a direction of the proximal end <NUM> of the crevice tool body <NUM> allows the brush body <NUM> to be retained in a respective one of the store or use states. In some instances, the moveable bar <NUM> can be biased towards the proximal end <NUM> using, for example, a biasing mechanism. The biasing mechanism may be, for example, a spring (e.g., a tension spring, a torsion spring, a compression spring, and/or any other suitable spring), an elastic material (e.g., a rubber), and/or any other suitable biasing mechanism.

The moveable bar <NUM> can include a retaining catch <NUM> configured prevent the brush body <NUM> from disengaging the crevice tool body <NUM>. As shown, the use catch <NUM> is disposed between the storage catch <NUM> and the retaining catch <NUM>. As such, when the brush body <NUM> is in the use state the retaining bar <NUM> is disposed between the retaining catch <NUM> and the use catch <NUM>.

The latch <NUM> can include a lever <NUM> configured to transition between an unactuated state and an actuated state. When the lever <NUM> is transitioned to the actuated state, the lever <NUM> urges a respective one or more of the storage catch <NUM>, the use catch <NUM>, and/or the retaining catch <NUM> into the actuator channel <NUM> such that the brush body <NUM> can move relative to the crevice tool body <NUM>. As such, the brush body <NUM> is capable of transitioning between stored and use states without moving the moveable bar <NUM> in a direction parallel to the crevice tool longitudinal axis <NUM>. When in the use state, transitioning the lever <NUM> to an actuated state may urge the retaining catch <NUM> into the actuator channel <NUM> such that the brush body <NUM> can be removed from the crevice tool body <NUM>.

The lever <NUM> can include one or more protrusions <NUM> configured to engage a respective one or more of the storage catch <NUM>, the use catch <NUM>, and/or the retaining catch <NUM>. The one or more protrusions <NUM> can urge respective ones of the storage catch <NUM>, the use catch <NUM>, and/or the retaining catch <NUM> into the actuator channel <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of an accessory <NUM>, which may be an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>. The accessory <NUM> includes a first body portion <NUM> and a second body portion <NUM> such that an air channel <NUM> is defined between the first and second body portions <NUM> and <NUM>. The first body portion <NUM> is pivotally coupled to the second body portion <NUM> such that the first body portion <NUM> pivots about a pivot axis <NUM>. As shown, the pivot axis <NUM> can be located proximate to an air outlet <NUM> of the accessory <NUM>. The pivotal motion of the first body portion <NUM> relative to the second body portion <NUM> results in a measure of an inlet width <NUM> of the air channel <NUM> increasing or decreasing. As such, a measure of the inlet width <NUM> may be varied between a maximum width (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) and a minimum width (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) by a user of the accessory <NUM>. Therefore, the accessory <NUM> may generally be described as being configured to transition between an unexpanded state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) and an expanded state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>). In some instances, the first body portion <NUM> may be biased towards the second body portion <NUM> using, for example, a biasing mechanism. The biasing mechanism may be, for example, a spring (e.g., a tension spring, a torsion spring, a compression spring, and/or any other suitable spring), an elastic material (e.g., a rubber), and/or any other suitable biasing mechanism.

<FIG> show schematic perspective views of an accessory <NUM>, which may be an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown, the accessory <NUM> includes a main body <NUM> and a tool body <NUM>. The tool body <NUM> includes a first tool end <NUM> having a first cleaning tool (e.g., a crevice tool) and a second tool end <NUM> having a second cleaning tool (e.g., a brush tool). The tool body <NUM> is rotatably coupled to the main body <NUM> such that the tool body <NUM> can be rotated about a rotation axis <NUM>. Rotation of the tool body <NUM> allows the first cleaning tool to be transitioned from a use state to a stored state and the second cleaning tool to be transitioned from the stored state to the use state. For example, the tool body <NUM> can be configured to rotate <NUM>° when transitioning the first and second cleaning tools between the use and stored states.

An actuator <NUM> can be configured to transition between an actuated and unactuated state. The actuator <NUM> can be included with, for example, a surface treatment apparatus, such as the surface treatment apparatus <NUM> of <FIG>. When in the actuated state, the tool body <NUM> can be rotated relative to the main body <NUM> (e.g., such that the first cleaning tool can be transitioned to a use state). When in the unactuated state, the tool body <NUM> may be prevented from rotating (e.g., such that the first cleaning tool can be maintained in its current state).

<FIG> show schematic cross-sectional views of an accessory <NUM>, which may be an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>. The accessory <NUM> includes a main body <NUM> having one or more sidewalls <NUM> that define a main body cavity <NUM>. A cleaning surface facing end <NUM> of the sidewalls <NUM> can include a first cleaning feature <NUM>. The first cleaning feature <NUM> may include, for example, a soft brush.

The main body cavity <NUM> is configured to be fluidly coupled to a surface treatment apparatus such as, for example, the surface treatment apparatus <NUM> of <FIG>. For example, the main body cavity <NUM> can include at least two open ends. As shown, the main body cavity <NUM> can also be configured to include a moveable cleaning body <NUM>. The moveable cleaning body <NUM> can define a cleaning body cavity that can be fluidly coupled to a surface treatment apparatus such as, for example, the surface treatment apparatus <NUM> of <FIG>. For example, the cleaning body cavity can include at least two open ends.

The moveable cleaning body <NUM> can include a second cleaning feature <NUM>. The second cleaning feature <NUM> may include, for example, a firm brush (e.g., as compared the first cleaning feature <NUM>). The moveable cleaning body <NUM> is configured to move within the main body cavity <NUM> such that the second cleaning feature <NUM> can transition between a stored state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) and a use state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>). When in the stored state, the second cleaning feature <NUM> can be disposed within the main body cavity <NUM> such that the second cleaning feature <NUM> is recessed relative to the first cleaning feature <NUM>. Therefore, the accessory <NUM> can generally be described as changing operational states (e.g., between a first and second cleaning feature) in response to the moveable cleaning body <NUM> moving within the main body cavity <NUM>.

The second cleaning feature <NUM> can be transitioned between the stored and use states in response to actuation of an actuator <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> can be included with a surface cleaning apparatus such as, for example, the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> of <FIG>. When the actuator <NUM> is actuated, the actuator <NUM> urges an arm <NUM> towards an actuated state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>). As the arm <NUM> moves towards the actuated state, the arm <NUM> urges the moveable cleaning body <NUM> to move relative to the main body cavity <NUM> such that the second cleaning feature <NUM> is urged towards the use state. As shown, the arm <NUM> can be biased towards an unactuated state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) using, for example, a biasing mechanism <NUM> (e.g., spring). As such, when the actuator <NUM> is in an unactuated state, the arm <NUM> urges the cleaning body to move relative to the main body cavity <NUM> such that the second cleaning feature <NUM> is urged toward the stored state.

<FIG> shows a side view of an example of the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, which may be an example of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> of <FIG>, fluidly coupled to an accessory <NUM>, which may be an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>. The accessory <NUM> can include a wand <NUM> having a stand <NUM>. The wand <NUM> is fluidly coupled to the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. The wand <NUM> can also be fluidly coupled to a surface cleaning head <NUM>. The stand <NUM> is configured such that the stand <NUM> transitions between a use state and a stored state.

The stand <NUM> may transition between the use state and the stored state in response to the actuation of a toggle <NUM> (e.g., a trigger or button). When in the stored state, the stand <NUM> is positioned adjacent the wand <NUM> such that an operator of the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> can move the surface cleaning head <NUM> over a surface <NUM> (e.g., a floor). When the stand <NUM> is in the use state, the stand <NUM> extends in a direction away from the wand <NUM> such that the stand <NUM> engages the surface <NUM>. The engagement of the stand <NUM> with the surface <NUM> supports the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> at a location above the surface <NUM>.

A first end <NUM> of the stand <NUM> is pivotally coupled to the wand <NUM>. The first end <NUM> of the stand <NUM> is coupled to the wand <NUM> at a location proximate to an air inlet <NUM> of the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. When in the stored state, a second end <NUM> of the stand <NUM> may be releaseably coupled to the wand <NUM> at a location proximate the surface cleaning head <NUM>. In response to the toggle <NUM> being actuated, the second end <NUM> of the stand <NUM> can pivot in a direction of the surface <NUM>.

Once in the use state, the stand <NUM> may be further pivoted such that the stand <NUM> transitions in to a locked state. When in the locked state and the toggle <NUM> is actuated an additional time, the stand <NUM> may be urged in a direction of the wand <NUM> (e.g., towards the stored state). The stand <NUM> may be urged to the stored state using, for example, a biasing mechanism. Therefore, the biasing mechanism may generally be described as urging the stand <NUM> from the use state to the stored state in response to the actuation of the toggle <NUM>. The biasing mechanism may be, for example, a spring (e.g., a tension spring, a torsion spring, a compression spring, and/or any other suitable spring), an elastic material (e.g., a rubber), and/or any other suitable biasing mechanism.

<FIG> show perspective views of an accessory <NUM>, which may be an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown, the accessory <NUM> includes a wand <NUM> and a stand <NUM> pivotally coupled to the wand <NUM>. The stand <NUM> is configured to pivot between a use state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) and a stored state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>). When in the use state, a stand longitudinal axis <NUM> of the stand <NUM> extends transverse to a wand longitudinal axis <NUM> of the wand <NUM> such that the stand <NUM> can engage a surface (e.g., a floor). When in the stored state, the stand longitudinal axis <NUM> can extend substantially parallel to the wand longitudinal axis <NUM> such that the stand <NUM> does not engage the surface.

As shown, an expanding foot <NUM> can be provided proximate a distal end <NUM> of the stand <NUM>, the distal end <NUM> of the stand <NUM> being proximate a surface (e.g., a floor). The expanding foot <NUM> can be configured to engage a surface (e.g., a floor) when the stand <NUM> is in the use state. The expanding foot <NUM> includes supports <NUM> pivotally coupled to a foot body <NUM>. The supports are configured to transition between a stored state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) to a use state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) in response to the stand <NUM> transitioning from the stored state to the use state. For example, when the supports <NUM> engage (e.g., contact) a surface (e.g., a floor), the supports <NUM> are urged to the use state in response to the engagement with the surface. A biasing mechanism can be provided to bias the supports <NUM> towards the stored state such that as the stand transitions to the stored state, the supports <NUM> transition to the stored state. The biasing mechanism may be, for example, a spring (e.g., a tension spring, a torsion spring, a compression spring, and/or any other suitable spring), an elastic material (e.g., a rubber), and/or any other suitable biasing mechanism. In some instances, the supports <NUM> can include one or more wheels such that the supports <NUM> can better pivot when engaging the surface.

<FIG> shows a magnified perspective view of a portion of the stand <NUM> and the wand <NUM>, wherein the stand <NUM> is in the stored state. As shown, when the stand <NUM> is in the stored state, a latch <NUM> extending from, for example, the stand <NUM> or the foot body <NUM> engages a corresponding catch <NUM> coupled to the wand <NUM>. As shown, the catch <NUM> extends from a catch body <NUM>. The catch body <NUM> can be pivotally coupled to the wand <NUM> such that the catch body <NUM> can pivot between a retaining state and a release state. For example, the catch body <NUM> can be pivot from the retaining state to the release state in response to actuation of a catch actuator <NUM>. As the catch body <NUM> pivots, the catch <NUM> comes out of engagement with the latch <NUM>. When the catch <NUM> comes out of engagement with the latch <NUM>, the stand <NUM> can transition to the use state. When the catch actuator <NUM> is not actuated, the catch body can be biased towards the retaining state (e.g., using a spring).

<FIG> shows a perspective view of a handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, which may be an example of the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> of <FIG>, coupled to an accessory <NUM>, which may be an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>. The accessory <NUM> includes a wand <NUM> having a pivot joint <NUM>. The wand <NUM> is fluidly coupled to a surface cleaning head <NUM>. The pivot joint <NUM> is disposed between the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> and the surface cleaning head <NUM>. For example, the pivot joint <NUM> may be disposed at or proximate to a midpoint of the wand <NUM>.

The pivot joint <NUM> may pivot between a use state and a stored state when a toggle is actuated. For example, while the toggle is transitioned from a first state to a second state, the pivot joint <NUM> may be capable of pivoting between the use and stored states. When in the use state, a first portion <NUM> of the wand <NUM> may be pivoted relative to a second portion <NUM> of the wand <NUM>.

In some instances, the pivot joint <NUM> may include a biasing mechanism that urges the pivot joint <NUM> to the use and/or stored state. The biasing mechanism may be, for example, a spring (e.g., a tension spring, a torsion spring, a compression spring, and/or any other suitable spring), an elastic material (e.g., a rubber), and/or any other suitable biasing mechanism.

<FIG> shows a schematic perspective view of a handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>, which may be an example of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> of <FIG>, having an onboard accessory <NUM>. The onboard accessory <NUM> may generally be described as an accessory non-removably coupled to the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. For example, the onboard accessory <NUM> can be pivotally coupled to a main body <NUM> of the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. As shown, the onboard accessory <NUM> is pivotally coupled to the main body <NUM> using hinge <NUM>. The onboard accessory <NUM> transitions between a use state and a stored state in response to a toggle being actuated when an additional accessory is not coupled to the main body <NUM>. When the onboard accessory <NUM> is in the use state, the onboard accessory <NUM> is fluidly coupled to a debris canister of the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>. When the onboard accessory <NUM> is in the stored state, the onboard accessory <NUM> is not fluidly coupled to the debris canister. As such, an additional accessory can be coupled to the handheld surface cleaning apparatus <NUM>.

<FIG> show a perspective view of a handle assembly <NUM> configured to be used with a surface cleaning apparatus such as, for example, the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> of <FIG>. The handle assembly <NUM> can include a coupling end <NUM> configured to engage an accessory (e.g., any one of the accessories disclosed herein) and a handle end <NUM> having a handle <NUM>. An onboard accessory <NUM> can be pivotally coupled to a main body <NUM> of the handle assembly <NUM> such that the onboard accessory <NUM> can transition between a stored state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) and a use state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>). The onboard accessory <NUM> can transition between the stored state and the use state in response to, for example, actuation of a toggle <NUM>. The toggle <NUM> may also be configured to actuate an actuator <NUM> that is configured to transition one or more of the accessories removably coupled at coupling end <NUM> between operational states.

As shown, a catch <NUM> is pivotally coupled to the main body <NUM> such that actuation of the toggle <NUM> causes the catch <NUM> to pivot in response to movement of, for example, the actuator <NUM>. As the catch <NUM> pivots, it moves out of engagement (e.g., contact) with a corresponding latch <NUM> of the onboard accessory <NUM>. When the catch <NUM> is moved out of engagement with the latch <NUM> the onboard accessory <NUM> is capable of pivoting from the stored state to the use state. In some instances, the onboard accessory <NUM> may be biased towards to use state (e.g., using a spring).

<FIG> shows a perspective view of a handheld surface treatment apparatus <NUM>, which may be an example of the surface treatment apparatus <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown, the handheld surface treatment apparatus <NUM> includes a body <NUM>, a debris canister <NUM> fluidly coupled to an air inlet <NUM>, and a toggle <NUM> proximate a handle <NUM>. For purposes of clarity the toggle <NUM> is illustrated as a depressible button, however, the toggle <NUM> may also be, for example, a trigger configured to be pulled. A coupling <NUM> is proximate the air inlet <NUM> and configured to couple to one or more accessories (e.g., any one or more of the accessories disclosed herein). The coupling <NUM> may include a power connector <NUM> for providing power to one or more accessories coupled thereto and an actuator <NUM> configured to cause accessory coupled thereto to transition between operational states. In some instances, the power connector <NUM> and/or actuator <NUM> may be separate from the coupling <NUM> and may be positioned, for example, proximate the coupling <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> is configured to move between an actuated and unactuated state in response to actuation of the toggle <NUM>. While the actuator <NUM> and power connector <NUM> are shown as being disposed on opposing sides of the coupling <NUM>, the actuator <NUM> and power connector <NUM> can be disposed at any location relative the coupling <NUM>.

The handheld surface treatment apparatus <NUM> may also include one or more cyclonic separators <NUM>. The cyclonic separator <NUM> is configured to separate at least a portion of debris from an airflow by cyclonic action.

<FIG> is a schematic cross-sectional view of an example of the handheld surface treatment apparatus <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown, the actuator <NUM> is urged between the actuated and unactuated states in response to movement of a push rod <NUM> along a surface treatment apparatus longitudinal axis <NUM>. An input end <NUM> of the push rod <NUM> is proximate the toggle <NUM> and an actuation end <NUM> of the push rod <NUM> is configured to engage (e.g., contact) the actuator <NUM>. As shown, the input end <NUM> may be horizontally offset along a horizontal axis <NUM> from the actuation end <NUM> of the push rod <NUM>. The horizontal axis <NUM> extends transverse to (e.g., perpendicular to) the surface treatment apparatus longitudinal axis <NUM>. The horizontal offset may allow the toggle <NUM> to be centrally disposed relative to the surface treatment apparatus <NUM> while the actuator <NUM> can be non-centrally disposed relative to the surface treatment apparatus <NUM>.

As also shown, the power connector <NUM> and the actuator <NUM> can be disposed on opposing sides of the handheld surface treatment apparatus <NUM>. The power connector <NUM> can be electrically coupled to a power supply (e.g., one or more batteries and/or an electrical grid) via power cables extending through a cable channel <NUM>. The cable channel <NUM> can be configured to extend around at least one cyclonic separator <NUM>.

An accessory (e.g., any one of the accessories disclosed herein) can be coupled and decoupled from the coupling <NUM> in response to actuation of a release <NUM>. The release <NUM> may include a pivotal lever and a latch configured to releasably engage at least a portion of the coupling <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a side view of a handheld surface treatment apparatus <NUM>, which may be an example of the surface treatment apparatus <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown, the handheld surface treatment apparatus <NUM> includes a body <NUM>, a debris canister <NUM> fluidly coupled to an air inlet <NUM>, and a toggle <NUM> (e.g., a pullable trigger) proximate a handle <NUM>. A coupling <NUM> is proximate the air inlet <NUM> and configured to couple to one or more accessories (e.g., any one or more of the accessories disclosed herein). The coupling <NUM> may include an actuator <NUM> configured to cause an accessory coupled thereto to transition between operational states. In some instances, the actuator <NUM> may be separate from the coupling <NUM> and may be positioned proximate the coupling <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> is configured to move between an actuated and unactuated state in response to actuation of the toggle <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a magnified perspective view of a portion of the handheld surface treatment apparatus <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown, when the toggle <NUM> is moved along a handheld surface treatment apparatus longitudinal axis <NUM> a pivot linkage <NUM> urges the actuator <NUM> between actuated and unactuated states. The pivot linkage <NUM> can be configured to urge the actuator <NUM> in a direction opposite that of a direction that the toggle <NUM> is urged. In other words, the actuator <NUM> and toggle <NUM> move in opposing directions along the handheld surface treatment apparatus longitudinal axis <NUM>.

As shown, the pivot linkage <NUM> includes a pivot body <NUM>, a toggle arm <NUM>, and an actuator arm <NUM>. The pivot body <NUM> is pivotally coupled to a portion of the body <NUM> of the handheld surface treatment apparatus <NUM> at a body pivot point <NUM>. The toggle arm <NUM> is pivotally coupled to the pivot body <NUM> at a toggle arm pivot point <NUM> and the actuator arm <NUM> is pivotally coupled to the pivot body <NUM> at an actuator arm pivot point <NUM>. As shown, the toggle arm <NUM> and the actuator arm <NUM> are coupled at opposing ends of the pivot body <NUM> such that the body pivot point <NUM> is disposed between the toggle arm pivot point <NUM> and the actuator arm pivot point <NUM>. The toggle arm <NUM> is pivotally coupled to the toggle <NUM> at a toggle pivot point <NUM> and the actuator arm <NUM> is pivotally coupled to the actuator <NUM> at an actuator pivot point <NUM>. In some instances, the toggle pivot point <NUM>, the actuator pivot point <NUM>, and the body pivot point <NUM> are aligned along a common axis.

In operation, when the toggle <NUM> is urged rearwardly (e.g., in a direction of the user and/or the handle <NUM>), the toggle arm <NUM> urges the pivot body <NUM> to pivot such that the toggle arm pivot point <NUM> moves along an arcuate path in a direction towards the user and/or the handle <NUM> and the actuator arm pivot point <NUM> moves along an arcuate path in a direction away from the user and/or handle <NUM>. As the actuator arm pivot point <NUM> moves along an arcuate path in a direction away from the user and/or handle <NUM>, the actuator <NUM> is urged in a direction away from the user and/or handle <NUM> (e.g., towards the actuated state).

When the toggle <NUM> is urged forwardly (e.g., in a direction away from the user and/or the handle <NUM>), the toggle arm <NUM> urges the pivot body <NUM> to pivot such that the toggle arm pivot point <NUM> moves along an arcuate path in a direction away from the user and/or the handle <NUM> and the actuator arm pivot point <NUM> moves along an arcuate path in a direction towards the user and/or handle <NUM>. As the actuator arm pivot point <NUM> moves along an arcuate path in a direction towards the user and/or handle <NUM>, the actuator <NUM> is urged in a direction towards the user and/or handle <NUM> (e.g., towards the unactuated state). In some instances, one or more of the toggle <NUM>, the pivot linkage <NUM>, and/or the actuator <NUM> may engage and/or include a biasing mechanism that biases the actuator <NUM> towards, for example, the unactuated state. The biasing mechanism may be, for example, a spring (e.g., a tension spring, a torsion spring, a compression spring, and/or any other suitable spring), an elastic material (e.g., a rubber), and/or any other suitable biasing mechanism.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of a handle assembly <NUM> configured to be used with a surface cleaning apparatus such as, for example, the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> of <FIG>. The handle assembly <NUM> can include a coupling end <NUM> configured to engage an accessory (e.g., any one of the accessories disclosed herein) and a handle end <NUM> having a handle <NUM>. A toggle <NUM> can be disposed proximate the handle <NUM> such that a user may actuate the toggle <NUM>. Actuation of the toggle <NUM> causes an actuator <NUM> to be transitioned between actuated and unactuated states. The actuator <NUM> is configured to transition an accessory coupled to the handle assembly <NUM> at the coupling end <NUM> between operational states in response to the actuation of the toggle <NUM>.

As shown, the handle assembly <NUM> includes a rack and pinion assembly <NUM> configured to urge the actuator <NUM> in a direction opposite that of a movement direction of the toggle <NUM>. The rack and pinion assembly <NUM> includes a toggle rack <NUM>, a pinion <NUM>, and an actuator rack <NUM>. When the toggle <NUM> is urged in a rearward direction (e.g., in a direction of a user and/or the handle <NUM>), the toggle rack <NUM> is urged in a rearward direction causing the pinion <NUM> to rotate such that the actuator rack <NUM> is urged in a forward direction (e.g., in a direction away from the user and/or handle <NUM>). When the actuator rack <NUM> is urged in the forward direction, the actuator <NUM> is transitioned from an unactuated state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>) towards an actuated state (e.g., as shown in <FIG>). When the toggle is urged in a forward direction, the toggle rack <NUM> is urged in a forward direction causing the pinion <NUM> to rotate such that the actuator rack <NUM> is urged in a rearward direction. When the actuator rack <NUM> is urged in the rearward direction, the actuator <NUM> is transitioned from an actuated state to an unactuated state. In some instances, one or more of the toggle <NUM>, the rack and pinion assembly <NUM>, and/or the actuator <NUM> may engage and/or include a biasing mechanism that biases the actuator <NUM> towards, for example, the unactuated state. The biasing mechanism may be, for example, a spring (e.g., a tension spring, a torsion spring, a compression spring, and/or any other suitable spring), an elastic material (e.g., a rubber), and/or any other suitable biasing mechanism.

<FIG> shows a perspective view of a handle assembly <NUM> configured to be used with a surface cleaning apparatus such as, for example, the surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> of <FIG>. The handle assembly <NUM> is removably coupled to an accessory <NUM>, which may be an example of the accessory <NUM> of <FIG>. As shown, the handle assembly <NUM> can include a coupling end <NUM> configured to releasably engage the accessory <NUM>, a handle end <NUM> having a handle <NUM>, and an outlet <NUM> configured to fluidly couple to a surface cleaning apparatus. A toggle <NUM> can be disposed proximate the handle <NUM>. Actuation of the toggle <NUM> can cause the accessory <NUM> to transition between operation states. Additionally, or alternatively, in some instances, actuation of the toggle <NUM> can actuate a latch <NUM> configured to releasably couple the handle assembly <NUM> to the accessory <NUM> (e.g., as shown in <FIG>).

As shown, the latch <NUM> is configured to engage a catch <NUM> defined in the accessory <NUM>. When actuated, the latch <NUM> moves into or out of engagement with the catch <NUM>. When the latch <NUM> moves out of engagement with the catch <NUM>, the handle assembly <NUM> can be decoupled from the accessory <NUM>.

<FIG> show a perspective view of the handle assembly <NUM> having portions removed therefrom for purposes illustrating a pivot linkage <NUM>. As shown, the pivot linkage <NUM> includes a pivot body <NUM> that is pivotally coupled to an air guide <NUM> such that the pivot body <NUM> pivots about a body pivot point <NUM>. The pivot body <NUM> can extend, at least partially, around the air guide <NUM>. For example, the air guide <NUM> can extend through an opening <NUM> extending through the pivot body <NUM>.

The pivot body <NUM> can be coupled to the toggle <NUM> such that actuation of the toggle <NUM> causes the pivot body <NUM> to pivot about the body pivot point <NUM>. The pivot body <NUM> can also be coupled to an actuator <NUM> such that pivoting of the pivot body <NUM> about the body pivot point <NUM> causes the actuator <NUM> to transition between actuated and unactuated states. As the actuator <NUM> transitions towards the actuated state, the latch <NUM> can be urged towards a delatched state (e.g., the latch <NUM> comes out of engagement with the catch <NUM>). The toggle <NUM> and the actuator <NUM> can be coupled to opposing sides of the pivot body <NUM> relative to a pivot axis defined by the body pivot point <NUM>.

As shown, the pivot body <NUM> can include an arm <NUM> that defines an arm slot <NUM> that corresponds to at least one toggle protrusion <NUM> extending from the toggle <NUM>. The toggle protrusion <NUM> is configured to be able slide within the arm slot <NUM>. As such, the latch <NUM> can be actuated without actuating the toggle <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> can define an actuator slot <NUM> configured to receive at least one corresponding body protrusion <NUM>. The body protrusion <NUM> can be configured to slide within the actuator slot <NUM>. In some instances, one or more of the toggle <NUM>, the pivot linkage <NUM>, and/or the actuator <NUM> may engage and/or include a biasing mechanism that biases the actuator <NUM> towards, for example, the unactuated state. The biasing mechanism may be, for example, a spring (e.g., a tension spring, a torsion spring, a compression spring, and/or any other suitable spring), an elastic material (e.g., a rubber), and/or any other suitable biasing mechanism.

<FIG> shows a schematic view of an example of a surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> having a toggle <NUM> that actuates a pump <NUM> for spraying a fluid (e.g., a cleaning solution or steam) onto a surface to be treated. The pump <NUM> may be an electric pump or a manually driven pump (e.g., through the actuation of the toggle <NUM>). <FIG> shows a schematic view of an example of a surface cleaning apparatus <NUM> having a toggle <NUM> that actuates one or more lights <NUM> (e.g., light emitting diodes or incandescent light bulb).

An example surface treatment apparatus may include a coupling, a handle, an accessory, and a toggle. The accessory can be coupled to the coupling and the accessory can have at least two operational states. The toggle can be proximate the handle, wherein actuation of the toggle causes the accessory to transition between operational states.

In some instances, the accessory may include a wand having a stand, wherein the stand is configured to transition between a stored state and a use state in response to the actuation of the toggle. A first end of the stand can be pivotally coupled to the wand. In some instances, the accessory may include a brush tool slideably coupled to a crevice tool, wherein the brush tool is configured to transition between a stored state and a use state in response to the actuation of the toggle. In some instances, the accessory may include a brush having a collar, wherein the collar is configured to slide along the brush between a first state and a second state in response to the actuation of the toggle. In some instances, the accessory includes a crevice tool, wherein the crevice tool is configured to expand from an unexpanded state to an expanded state in response to the actuation of the toggle. A width of the unexpanded state measures less than a width of the expanded state. In some instances, the toggle is one of a button or a trigger.

Another example of a handheld surface treatment apparatus may include a coupling, a handle, a toggle proximate the handle, a wand coupled to the coupling, and a surface cleaning head fluidly coupled to the wand. The wand may include a stand configured to be transitioned between a stored state and a use state in response to actuation of the toggle.

In some instances, a first end of the stand is pivotally coupled to the wand. In some instances, when the toggle is actuated, the stand pivots in a direction of a floor. In some instances, the handheld surface treatment apparatus includes a biasing mechanism configured to urge the stand from the use state to the stored state in response to the actuation of the toggle. In some instances, the toggle is one of a button or a trigger.

Another example of a handheld surface treatment apparatus may include a handle, a toggle proximate the handle, and an actuator. The actuator may be configured to cause an accessory having at least two operational states to transition between operational states in response to actuation of the toggle.

In some instances, the handheld surface treatment apparatus may include a coupling configured to couple to the accessory. In some instances, the accessory may include a wand having a stand. The stand may be configured to transition between a stored state and a use state in response to the actuation of the toggle. In some instances, a first end of the stand may be pivotally coupled to the wand. In some instances, the accessory may include a brush tool slideably coupled to a crevice tool. The brush tool may be configured to transition between a stored state and a use state in response to the actuation of the toggle. In some instances, the accessory includes a brush having a collar. The collar may be configured to slide along the brush between a first state and a second state in response to the actuation of the toggle. In some instances, the accessory includes a crevice tool. The crevice tool may be configured to expand from an unexpanded state to an expanded state in response to the actuation of the toggle. A width of the unexpanded state measures less than a width of the expanded state. In some instances, the toggle is one of a button or a trigger.

Each of the accessories described herein are merely examples to illustrate a toggle-actuated accessory having at least two operational states. Other example accessories capable of being actuated between operational states, include, but are not limited to, a telescopic wand, an accessory having a deployable brush/squeegee, and/or any other suitable accessory.

While the present disclosure has generally shown and described various accessories being coupled to a handheld surface cleaning apparatus, such a configuration is non-limiting. For example, the accessories described herein may be capable of being used with any one or more of a canister vacuum, an upright vacuum, a stick vacuum, and/or any other suitable surface cleaning apparatus.

Furthermore, the examples of how the operation of the toggle causes the accessory to transition between operational states are merely exemplary for the purposes of illustration and the present disclosure is not limited to the disclosed examples. Additionally, each of the described examples of the operation of the toggle operation can be readily applied to each of the accessories disclosed herein as well as other accessories having at least two operational states.

Further, while the actuation of the toggle has been described herein as mechanically causing an accessory to transition between operational states, the toggle may also be coupled to an electrical circuit that causes the accessory to transition between operational states. For example, an accessory may transition between operational states in response to the toggle causing a motor, an electric linear actuator, or other electric component to be actuated. In some instances, for example, the actuation of the toggle may cause a motor to induce vibrations into an accessory having a brush.

As used herein the term engage may generally refer to direct engagement (e.g., contact) and/or indirect engagement.

Claim 1:
A surface treatment apparatus (<NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
a vacuum chamber (<NUM>, <NUM>) having a suction motor (<NUM>) and a debris canister (<NUM>, <NUM>);
an inlet (<NUM>) fluidly coupled to the vacuum chamber (<NUM>, <NUM>);
a coupling (<NUM>, <NUM>) extending around at least a portion of the inlet (<NUM>);
a handle (<NUM>);
an accessory (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) coupled to the coupling (<NUM>, <NUM>), the accessory having (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) at least two operational states;
a toggle (<NUM>, <NUM>); and
an actuator (<NUM>, <NUM>) having an actuated state and an unactuated state, when in the unactuated state, the actuator (<NUM>, <NUM>) is recessed relative to the coupling (<NUM>, <NUM>), and, when in the actuated state, the actuator (<NUM>, <NUM>) extends from the coupling (<NUM>, <NUM>) by an extension distance, the actuator (<NUM>, <NUM>) being configured to cause the accessory (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) to transition between the operational states in response to actuation of the toggle (<NUM>, <NUM>);
wherein the toggle (<NUM>, <NUM>) is disposed on the handle (<NUM>) and between the actuator (<NUM>, <NUM>) and the handle (<NUM>).