Abstract: A cleaning apparatus including cyclones (11, 52, 81, 107) connected to a uniquely configured receiving chamber (12, 53, 99, 112) is described. The chamber has a diameter furthest from the cone opening (32, 75, 98, 118) at least 3 times the diameter of the cone opening such that dirt is not re-entrained from the chamber. Also described is an apparatus with a sealing member (33, 76, 100, 117) between the receiving chamber and cyclone which provides a seal during air flow and which allows separation of the chamber and cyclone for dirt removal. Also described is a ring second sealing member (34, 104) around an open portion of the receiving chamber which allows removal of the chamber from an outer container (10, 80) to facilitate emptying dirt.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaning appliance comprises a lower efficiency cyclone unit and a high efficiency cyclone unit connected in series. This enables both large and fine dirt particles to be dealt with.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaning apparatus with an improved air control valve (22) for directing air flow to a passageway (11) in a casing either from a cleaning head (2) or a hose section (6) is described. In the preferred form the valve rotates to provide internal passages to the air passageway in the casing. The apparatus is particularly adapted as a vacuum cleaning appliance.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaning appliance having dual spaced apart air conveying pipes (13, 14) supporting a cap (15) for a dirt container is described. The pipes are supported on a casing (11) mounting a movable cleaning head (10). The appliance is also convertible to a tank type cleaner using a handle (30) for the appliance.

Abstract: This invention relates to a vacuum cleaning appliance which is convertible to act both as an upright type cleaner or a cylinder type cleaner.The main air passageway through the appliance includes a motor driven suction fan unit and a valve device which is operable to connect the passageway either with an air inlet in a carpet engaging section or with an air inlet in a socket for receiving a cleaner head in the form of a hollow pipe which is connected with the socket by a flexible hose. The pipe slides telescopically within the flexible hose so as to engage within the socket and to act as a handle. When located in the socket the pipe operates the valve device to connect the air passageway with the carpet engaging section.