Abstract: Vacuum cleaner filters, in particular replaceable vacuum cleaner filters suitable for both wet and wet/dry type vacuum cleaners are disclosed, as well as vacuum cleaner systems incorporating the use of such filters, and methods for their use. The filters include a filter element arranged in a closed circumferential, cylindrically-shaped path, a top end cap having a central orifice capable of constricting a post on a vacuum filter cage, and optionally a molded end ring oppositely-spaced from the top end cap for engagement with the lower motor housing of a vacuum cleaner.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner is described that includes an elongated vacuum body, an optional battery-pack attached to the bottom end of the elongated vacuum body, and a removable backpack assembly with shoulder and waist straps attachable directly to the elongated vacuum body. The shape of the elongated vacuum body is such that the center of gravity of the body is shifted close to the body of the vacuum appliance user, allowing for greater freedom of movement during use. The vacuum appliance also includes exhaust air vents positioned to reduce the noise output of the vacuum appliance as perceived by the user during use.

Abstract: Applicant has created vacuum apparatuses with improved stability and methods for improving the stability of a wet/dry vacuum. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a motor, a removable drum adapted to store debris collected by the apparatus, and a base that can be adapted to receive the removable drum. The motor can be adapted to be interposed between the removable drum and the base. The methods can include the step of providing a base, the step of providing a removable drum adapted to be coupled to the base, and the step of coupling a vacuum motor to the base such that the vacuum motor is adapted to be disposed beneath the removable drum when the drum is coupled to the base. By relocating the motor of vacuum apparatus beneath the drum, the vacuum's center of gravity can be lowered significantly and, thus, its propensity to tip over is minimized.

Abstract: Described are methods, apparatuses, and systems for securing a vacuum appliance to a vacuum device including a first locking adapter that includes a tab and a second locking adapter that includes a receiving slot. The first and second adapters form an airtight seal when the tab is received by the slot by rotating one adapter relative to the other. The receiving slot can include a slot terminus to restrict rotational movement of the first adapter relative to the second. The apparatus can further include a securing slot that can secure the tab within a slot terminus such that a portion of the second locking adapter adjacent to the receiving slot is adapted to flex. Through the described rotation, the first and second adapters tighten and become rigid thus minimizing both the slippage between these two elements and the leakage between the vacuum device and any attached appliances.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner assembly designed for use in a vehicle having a passenger compartment such as those with at least one row of seats and a cargo area. The vacuum cleaner assembly preferably includes a power head, a collection drum or other container, and a hose. The powerhead of the present invention is powered by the vehicle's electrical system and is preferably mounted between exterior body panels and interior compartment panels of the vehicle. For example, the power head may be mounted between the exterior body panels and the interior compartment panels adjacent to, but not in the cargo area.

Abstract: A vacuum accessory tool that includes a nozzle body having a first end and a second, spaced apart end and at least one light emitting element that emits light that will illuminate a surface to be cleaned by the accessory tool is described.

Abstract: A vacuum accessory tool that includes a nozzle body having a first end and a second, spaced apart end and at least one light emitting element that emits light that will illuminate a surface to be cleaned by the accessory tool is described. The light emitting element is protected by a protective housing that protects the element when the tool is inserted into areas during cleaning, yet still allows the light to illuminate surfaces during operation.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner is described that includes an elongated vacuum body, an optional battery-pack attached to the bottom end of the elongated vacuum body, and a removable backpack assembly with shoulder and waist straps attachable directly to the elongated vacuum body. The shape of the elongated vacuum body is such that the center of gravity of the body is shifted close to the body of the vacuum appliance user, allowing for greater freedom of movement during use. The vacuum appliance also includes exhaust air vents positioned to reduce the noise output of the vacuum appliance as perceived by the user during use.

Abstract: Applicants have created vacuum systems and apparatuses for a hanging wall wet/dry vacuum with detachable blower and slide out drum removal. The vacuum apparatus can include a removable powerhead (such as a blower), a removable drum, and a base unit that can be coupled to the external surface (such as a wall) when the removable powerhead is decoupled from the base unit. The system can include the vacuum apparatus and an external surface mounting device adapted to mount the vacuum apparatus to the external surface. Because the powerhead can be removed from the base unit while coupled to the external surface, an operator can enjoy an increased portability and functionality of the powerhead. Further, because the drum can be similarly removed from the base unit, an operator can quickly and efficiently clean the drum without removing the entire vacuum apparatus from the external surface.

Abstract: Vacuum cleaner filters, in particular replaceable vacuum cleaner filters suitable for both wet and wet/dry type vacuum cleaners are disclosed, as well as vacuum cleaner systems incorporating the use of such filters, and methods for their use. The filters include a filter element arranged in a closed circumferential, cylindrically-shaped path, a top end cap having a central orifice capable of constricting a post on a vacuum filter cage, and optionally a molded end ring oppositely-spaced from the top end cap for engagement with the lower motor housing of a vacuum cleaner.

Abstract: Described is a load-bearing support apparatus and system including an upper and lower support element adapted to rotate about one or more axes. The support elements can each further include support couplings. The apparatus can further include first and second support elements that can be adapted to bear the weight of a load along vertical and horizontal axes, respectively. The apparatus can include a mounting support element that can include upper and lower load connectors that can further be coupled to the load. The upper and lower load connectors can each be coupled to the upper and lower support couplings, respectively, in a ball-and-socket joint configuration. Because the ball-and-socket joints can create an articulating motion based on an operator's movement, the support apparatus can increase an operator's range of motion resulting in greater comfort and less fatigue while supporting the load.

Abstract: A filter condition indicator for a vacuum appliance having a filter includes a housing with a diaphragm dividing the housing into first and second chambers. One chamber receives a pressure indication from inside the filter, and the other chamber receives a pressure indication from outside the filter. An indicator device is activated by movement of the diaphragm in response to a pressure differential between the first and second chambers.

Abstract: A filter condition indicator for a vacuum appliance having a filter includes a housing with a diaphragm dividing the housing into first and second chambers. One chamber receives a pressure indication from inside the filter, and the other chamber receives a pressure indication from outside the filter. An indicator device is activated by movement of the diaphragm in response to a pressure differential between the first and second chambers.

Abstract: A vacuum appliance includes a motor having a rotatable shaft. An air flow generating member is connected to the shaft. The air flow generated by the rotating member generates noise having a frequency and corresponding wavelength. An air flow path receives air generated by the rotating member. The air flow path has first and second channels, the lengths of which define a predetermined difference therebetween to cancel the noise. In certain embodiments, the difference is corresponds to one-half wavelength.