Abstract: A vacuum cleaning including a nozzle base comprising a primary and secondary suction opening, a suction source positioned within a first cavity in the nozzle base, and a dust cup releasably positioned within a second cavity in the base. The dust cup comprises a first inlet in communication with the primary suction opening, a second inlet in communication with the secondary suction opening, and an outlet. An above floor cleaning tool is in communication with the second inlet. A first filter assembly is positioned adjacent the outlet of the dust cup. A second filter is positioned between the suction source and the first filter. An exhaust opening and filter are positioned downstream of the suction source to prevent particles from venting to atmosphere. The vacuum cleaner further includes a handle assembly comprising an elongated connecting portion and a handle. The handle is removable for use as a handle for an above-floor cleaning tool.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner including a nozzle base comprising a primary suction opening and a suction source. A dust cup assembly is releasably secured to the nozzle base. The dust cup assembly comprises a first inlet and a door positioned adjacent the inlet to selectively open and close the inlet. A rotatable brushroll assembly is positioned adjacent the primary suction opening. A three position control assembly is located on the nozzle base. The control assembly comprises a selector switch and a slide bar. Movement of the selector switch to first and second positions moves the slide bar out of engagement with a finger extending from the door allowing the door to open due to suction air. Movement of the selector switch to a third position moves the slide bar into engagement with the finger to prevent the door from opening due to suction air.

Abstract: An upright vacuum cleaner includes a nozzle base (12) with at least one suction opening (60) formed therein. A rotatable brushroll (64) is positioned adjacent to the suction opening (60) for agitating a surface being cleaned. A suction source (54) is housed within the nozzle base (12). A dust cup assembly (70) is releasably connected to the nozzle base (12). The dust cup assembly (70) connects the suction source (54) and the suction opening (60) in fluid communication. A filter assembly (90) including a handle (101) is positioned between the dust cup assembly (70) and the suction source (54) to block the passage of dirt and dust to the suction source (54). A handle (10) is pivotally connected to the nozzle base (12) and includes an upper handle grip (22) including a hooked portion (24) for hanging the upright vacuum cleaner. First and second wings (74a, 74b) extend from opposite lateral sides of the dust cup cover (72) to facilitate the separation of the dust cup assembly (70) and the nozzle base (12).

Abstract: A hand-held scrubbing device used for cleaning and/or scrubbing bathroom walls, tile, tubs, faucets, crevices, shower stalls, and other surfaces. The hand-held scrubbing device includes a head which is rotatable about a longitudinal axis of an elongated body portion of the device. The head can simultaneously swivel with respect to the longitudinal axis of the elongated body portion. Various cleaning implements, such as brushes and scrubbing pads, are attached to the head. The device also includes a handle which is rotatable with respect to the elongated body portion and is locked into a pistol position or a wand position. Preferably, the device can include a universal joint assembly which allows the head to rotate and swivel with respect to the elongated body portion. A splash guard can be attached to the head. A motor is housed within a hollow portion of the elongated body portion and is powered by battery.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a bucket of a wet/dry vacuum cleaner includes the step of producing a one piece conical shell with an open top end and an open bottom end. The shell is tapered such that its bottom end has a larger diameter than its top end. A base plate is also produced. Subsequently, the base plate is secured to the shell to close the shell bottom end and form a bucket. An aperture may extend through the shell and a hose inlet can be snapped to the shell through the aperture therein. A latch handle can be snapped to a latch mounting wall of the shell and a handle can be secured to the shell as well. The shell can also include an integral skirt in which are formed caster housings as well as a tool storage cavity.