Abstract: A control system is described for controlling an appliance, such as a fan. The control system includes a user-operable remote control for transmitting light signals, a control circuit for controlling at least one component of the appliance, such as a motor, and a user interface circuit for supplying control signals to the control circuit. The user interface circuit includes a switch and a receiver for receiving light signals transmitted by the remote control. A push button actuator both actuates the switch through movement of the actuator towards the switch, and conveys light signals received from the remote control to the receiver.

Abstract: A nozzle for a fan assembly has an air inlet, an annular air outlet, and an interior passage for conveying air from the air inlet to the air outlet. The interior passage is located between an annular inner wall, and an outer wall extending about the inner wall. The inner wall at least partially defines a bore through which air from outside the nozzle is drawn by air emitted from the air outlet. The inner wall is eccentric with respect to the outer wall so that the cross-sectional area of the interior passage varies about the bore. The variation in the cross-sectional area of the interior passage can control the direction in which air is emitted from around the air outlet to reduce turbulence in the air flow generated by the fan assembly.

Abstract: An upright cleaning appliance is described which includes a reclining upright body and a cleaner head, the cleaner head being connected to the upright body and maneuverable across a floor surface using a handle fixed to the upright body. The appliance also includes a substantially rigid wand which is connected to a suction inlet on the vacuum cleaner by a flexible hose and which is suitable for use in cleaning above the floor. The wand is configured for storage on-board the vacuum cleaner with a first portion of the wand constrained relative to the handle and a second portion of the wand constrained relative to a lower part of the upright body so that the wand braces the handle to said lower part.

Abstract: A control system is described for controlling an appliance, such as a fan. The control system includes a user-operable remote control for transmitting light signals, a control circuit for controlling at least one component of the appliance, such as a motor, and a user interface circuit for supplying control signals to the control circuit. The user interface circuit includes a switch and a receiver for receiving light signals transmitted by the remote control. A push button actuator both actuates the switch through movement of the actuator towards the switch, and conveys light signals received from the remote control to the receiver.

Abstract: An upright cleaning appliance is described which includes a reclining upright body and a cleaner head, the cleaner head being connected to the upright body and maneuverable across a floor surface using a handle fixed to the upright body. The appliance also includes a substantially rigid wand which is connected to a suction inlet on the vacuum cleaner by a flexible hose and which is suitable for use in cleaning above the floor. The wand is configured for storage on-board the vacuum cleaner with a first portion of the wand constrained relative to the handle and a second portion of the wand constrained relative to a lower part of the upright body so that the wand braces the handle to said lower part.