Abstract: A nozzle unit for an electric vacuum cleaner has a body case 32 with a nozzle 34a open toward a surface to be cleaned, a first pipe 35 coupled to the body case 32 so as to be rotatable in the direction J1, and a second pipe 36 coupled to the first pipe 35 so as to be rotatable in the direction J2. A first and a second air flow passage, formed inside the first and second pipes 35 and 36 respectively, are arranged substantially in a straight line as seen in a side view. The first pipe 35 has a sliding portion 35a that has an arc-shaped cross section and that slides along the inner surface of the body case 32, and this sliding portion 35a is arranged inside the body case 32, which is substantially rectangular, as seen in a plan view.

Abstract: A rotatable hose coupling is provided for use with a pool cleaner, particularly of the type powered by a suction or vacuum source via a flexible vacuum hose or the like connected to the suction side of conventional pool water filtration equipment, wherein the rotatable hose coupling is mounted in-line along the vacuum hose and responds to cyclic pressure differentials to index the hose through a rotational increment each time the filtration equipment is turned on and off. The rotatable hose coupling comprises a tubular plunger having one end received axially and slidably within a cam housing defining an axially opposed and spaced-apart pair of cam surfaces. At least one radially extending cam pin carried by the plunger engages the cam surfaces to rotatably index the cam housing relative to the plunger in response to axial back-and-forth displacement of the plunger within the cam housing.

Abstract: A telescopable wand assembly of a vacuum cleaner. The assembly has a first pipe communicated with a nozzle portion and including a main body made of synthetic resin and a notch portion made of metal, a second pipe communicated with a handle portion and telescopably receiving a part of the first pipe, a knob portion and a rod for interlocking the first and second pipes such that the first and second pipes are slidable by discrete intervals, a cylinder member guiding the first pipe into the second pipe and confining the rod, a rubber ring for sealing a gap between the first and second pipes, and a stopper for supporting the rubber ring.

Abstract: A tube shaft for a vacuum cleaner the shaft (10) having an upper tube part (15) and a lower tube part turnably connected to one another and each including at least two tube sections (15c,15e,16b,16c). The tube sections of each tube part are inclined with respect to one another. The lower tube part (16) includes an end section (16b) supporting a nozzle (14), the nozzle having a nozzle part (14a) and a connecting part (14b). The connecting part is connected to the end section of the lower tube part whereas an upper end (15f) of the upper tube part (15) is connected to a hose, a tube handle (11) or the like. The lower tube part (16) is arranged to be turned about 180° with respect to the upper tube part (15) as well as to the nozzle part (14a) from a first turning position, wherein said end section (16b) is inclined a first angle (&agr;) with respect to the floor, to a second turning position, wherein the end section (16b) is inclined a second, relatively smaller angle (&bgr;) with respect to the floor.

Abstract: Apparatus for a home workshop to collect wood dust from a plurality of locations and deposit the dust in a central container. The apparatus consists of a tubing manifold, running along the wall of the workshop, with multiple connection points for tools. The manifold contains a vacuum tee fitting that allows the vacuum source to be connected in the middle of the manifold, rather than at one of the ends, without sacrificing collection efficiency. This reduces the average length of the suction path to the tools, further enhancing collection efficiency, and allows location of the vacuum source where convenient.

Abstract: A twist-lock connector for adjustably connecting interlocking telescopic tubular members includes a camming surface on the interior surface of a rotatable member which cooperates with the camming member of a seating member attached to a first tubular member. The twist-lock connector is employed by inserting the male end of a second tubular member inside the female end of a first tubular member to which the seating member is attached, and rotating the rotatable member in a first direction until the camming action causes the engaging surface of the seating member to lock by frictionally engaging the outer surface of the second tubular member. Disconnection of the tubular members is effected by reversing the order of the steps for connection. The twist-lock connector also includes an overtightening protection feature. When the rotatable member is rotated in the first direction relative to the seating member by approximately 180°, the lock is released, but without breakage of the twist-lock connector.

Abstract: An electric vacuum cleaner includes a canister housing having an internal chamber and a suction inlet and an exhaust outlet both communicating with that chamber. The vacuum cleaner also includes a suction generator and dust collector both held in the internal chamber. Further, the vacuum cleaner includes a nozzle for picking up dirt and debris and a motor driven agitator and drive motor carried on that nozzle. Finally, a hose and wand assembly are provided. The wand assembly provides fluid communication between the outlet of the nozzle and the hose leading to the suction inlet of the canister housing. The wand assembly includes respective first and second telescoping tubes constructed from metal, an electrical conductor and a telescoping insulator assembly including a channel for receiving and holding the electrical conductor in substantially any respective position of the first and second telescoping tubes.

Abstract: A device for connecting a hose to an article, such as a wet/dry vacuum, includes a first member having first and second ends, with the first end adapted to be coupled to the hose. A receptacle has first and second ends. The first end of the receptacle is adapted to be mounted to the article, and the second end is adapted to be connected to the second end of the first member. A locking member is mounted on one of the first member or the receptacle for securing the first member to the receptacle, and at least one sealing member is situated about one of the second end of the first member or the second end of the receptacle. In one embodiment, the sealing member seals against an external surface of the receptacle, and in an alternative embodiment, the sealing member seals against an internal surface of the receptacle.

Abstract: The invention relates to a portable handheld blower/vacuum apparatus having a housing and a blower scroll formed in the housing. An impeller is provided in the blower scroll. Air is supplied to the blower scroll via an air inlet and air is directed away from the blower scroll via an air outlet. An air-conducting connecting tube is mounted on the air outlet via a housing-fixed connecting stub. A bayonet connection is provided in the overlap region between the connecting tube and the connecting stub. The bayonet connection includes a guide path lying in the overlap region. The guide path includes an axial segment and a peripheral segment connected thereto in which a radial cam of the other part engages. The cam is secured form tight by a latch connection in the peripheral segment of the guide path to ensure a reliable, mechanically loadable attachment of the connecting tube in the connecting stub.

Abstract: A quick release for a vacuum cleaner having a nozzle and a wand for providing suction to the nozzle comprises a tubular connector to be received by the nozzle. A resilient latch on the wand is received in an opening in the tubular connector to secure releasably the wand to the tubular connector. A biased sleeve is movable axially along the tubular connector. The sleeve has a cam surface to urge the latch inwardly to an extent to clear the opening against the bias when the sleeve is moved axially to permit the withdrawal of the wand from the tubular connector.

Abstract: A tube coupling for use in a vacuum cleaner includes a first tubular part and a second tubular part, which parts can be coupled to and separated from one another. The first part includes a locking member which is movable from a first position, in which the locking member locks the second part relative to the first part, to a second position, in which the locking member releases the second part. The first part further comprises a slide which cooperates with the locking member, the locking member being moved to the second position if the slide is moved parallel to a longitudinal axis of the first part in a direction away from the second part. In this way, a force exerted on the slide to unlock the parts and a force exerted on the first part to separate the parts from one another are oriented in the same direction, as a result of which the tube coupling is very easy to handle. In a special embodiment the slide of the tube coupling is a grip held by the user when the parts are to be uncoupled.

Abstract: A telescoping vacuum-cleaner pipe assembly has a guide sleeve on an outer pipe which cooperates with an actuating sleeve displaceable against the force of a ring spring on the guide sleeve to lock and unlock a detent engageable in recesses on an inner pipe. The ring spring is held between the actuating sleeve and an annular cap locking into the actuating sleeve.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner hose assembly has a corrugated, flexible hose with fittings at opposite ends for connection to the vacuum cleaner suction inlet and to a cleaning head. A tube or cable extends along the assembly for supply of cleaning fluid or electrical power to the cleaning head. The tube or cable is retained with the hose by means of a U-shape channel provided as a separate member bonded to the outside of the hose. The tube or cable extends within the channel as a loose fit so that it can move along the channel on flexing of the hose, thereby helping maintain flexibility of the assembly.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner tube shaft having a first tube shaped part (11) and a second tube shaped part (12). The first part is slidably arranged in the second part and is adapted to be releasably locked to the second part in a desired position. The second part (12) includes two sections (15, 16) which are connected to each other via a pivot (17). When the first part (11) is inserted in the two sections (15, 16), the two sections are aligned with respect to each other. When the first part is inserted into only one section (15) of the second part, the sections (15, 16) can be positioned in a desired angular position with respect to each other.

Abstract: A telescopic extension wand of a vacuum cleaner includes an inclined tab provided at the inner wall of a sleeve for biasing a retaining plate having retaining teeth underside to engage with a plurality of retaining teeth of a middle tube or an inner tube so the middle or inner tube can be relatively positioned. A projected boss provided at the inner wall of the sleeve can be guided by a guiding slot disposed at an outer wall of the external tube or middle tube. When the sleeve is rotated to a preset position, the inclined tab as well as the retaining plate can be controlled to engage or disengage the middle tube or inner tube with/without engagement between the retaining teeth therebetween. By this arrangement the middle tube and inner tube can be repositioned.

Abstract: A vacuum hose assembly includes an air inlet connector, a flexible hose, and rigid tube. Screw threads are provided on one end of the air inlet connector. Screw threads are also provided on one end of the rigid tube. The three components of the hose assembly are coupled by screwing one component to another. Therefore, the air inlet connector is coupled to the flexible hose by screwing the air inlet connector into the flexible hose so that the screw threads of the air inlet connector engage with the ridges of the flexible hose. Furthermore, the rigid tube is coupled to the flexible hose by screwing the rigid tube into the flexible hose so that the screw threads of the rigid tube engage with the ridges of the flexible hose.

Abstract: A multi-component flow passage assembly is disclosed which incorporates an improved sealing adaptor structure. The adaptor includes a generally-cylindrical adaptor body with a rim for seating on the periphery of a first flow passage section, e.g. a vacuum cleaner horn. The adaptor body is made to include a bead which is received within a lip on the horn. The rim includes a sealing ring section in the shape of an O-ring for sealingly engaging the perimeter of a second flow passage section, which is connected to e.g. a vacuum cleaner attachment. The present assembly provides a better seal and simplified construction over previous devices.

Abstract: A vacuum-cleaner-hose assembly includes a vacuum-cleaner hose (6, 36) and a swivel coupling (3, 33) for coupling the vacuum-cleaner hose (6, 36) to a housing (4) of a vacuum cleaner so as to allow it to be swivelled about a swivel axis (5) and at an angle relative to said swivel axis (5). The swivel coupling (3, 33) has a hose guide (8, 38) which surrounds a flexible portion (24, 54) of the vacuum-cleaner hose (6, 36) and holds said portion of the vacuum-cleaner hose (6, 36) in a curved position. Since the vacuum-cleaner hose is held in a curved position, the connection of the vacuum-cleaner hose to the swivel coupling can be arranged closer to that end of the swivel coupling which is to be connected to the vacuum cleaner, as a result of which the swivel coupling can be smaller and the swivel coupling or at least a combination of the swivel coupling and an adjoining coupling portion of the vacuum-cleaner hose projects less far in relation to the swivel axis of the swivel coupling.

Abstract: A vacuum apparatus with a suction hose. The hose has a first end connected to a suction inlet of the apparatus and an opposite second end removably connected to a docking section on a housing of the apparatus. The docking station has an aperture for receiving the second end. Located in the aperture is a latch with a ring shaped section and an integral ejecting spring. The latch also has a button section that extends through the housing and is adapted to be depressed by a user. Pressing the button section spreads the ring shaped section and allows the ejecting spring to eject the second end of the hose from the docking station.

Abstract: The extension coupling for fluid distribution equipment has a first external tubular body, a second internal tubular body for the passage of said fluids, and a coupling for its connection, in series, to other similar elements and/or handle connected to the distribution equipment and/or accessories. The first body and the second body are monolithic, and are obtained from one single molding process of plastic material.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fitting assembly for suction-washing machines, for cleaning floors, moquettes, carpets and the like. The fitting assembly comprises at least two tubular lengths, which are mutually removably coaxially associated with one another, each of which is provided with a body in which are provided a suction duct and a delivery duct which are parallel to one another.One of the tubular length is provided with a tapering end portions, which can be introduced into an end portion of the other tubular length; at one end portion of the delivery duct of a tubular length are provided connecting means, which can be removably tightly engaged with the end portion of the delivery duct of the other tubular length as the two tubular lengths are connected; the fitting assembly comprising, moreover, an end connecting element which can be coupled to end fittings having different diameter inlets.

Abstract: A telescopable vacuum cleaner suction pipe has an outer pipe, an inner pipe having arresting depressions, and arresting element coupled with the outer pipe and engaging in the arresting depressions, a manually actuatable slider unblocking the arresting element, a pressure-loaded blocking spring which when the slider is not actuated holds the arresting element in a locking position and when the slider is actuated the arresting element is movable against the blocking spring to unlocking position for a relative displacement of the inner pipe and the outer pipe, the arresting element being formed as two clamping bodies engaging in separate arresting depressions and inclined at acute angles relative to a longitudinal axis of the out pipe, a guiding body form-lockingly received in the outer pipe and having inclined sliding planes on which the clamping body are displaced, one of the blocking bodies which blocks a relative movement of the inner pipe and the outer pipe is displaceable for releasing its blocking positi

Abstract: A quick release for a vacuum cleaner having a nozzle and a wand for providing suction to the nozzle comprises a tubular connector to be received by the nozzle. A resilient latch on the wand is received in an opening in the tubular connector to secure releasably the wand to the tubular connector. A biased sleeve is movable axially along the tubular connector. The sleeve has a cam surface to urge the latch inwardly to an extent to clear the opening against the bias when the sleeve is moved axially to permit the withdrawal of the wand from the tubular connector.

Abstract: A suction line has a stiff suction tube and a flexible suction hose having a connecting end. A connector for connecting the connecting end of the flexible suction hose to the stiff suction tube to form the suction line having free ends is provided. One of the free ends of the suction line is connected to a vacuum source. The other free end of the suction line can receive a vacuuming tool. The stiff suction tube has a longitudinal axis. The connector is rotatable about an axis extending transverse to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: An adapter for connecting a source of air to a device to be inflated or deflated which has an air inlet opening. The adapter has a first larger hollow inlet end portion connectable to a source of air, and a second smaller outlet end portion including an elongated tube for insertion in the air inlet opening of the device to be inflated. The two end portions are connected by a smoothly tapered hollow conical portion which directs the air from the inlet portion to the outlet portion and into the device.

Abstract: A vacuum generating device, such as a wet/dry vacuum, is attached to a faucet by an attachment member. The attachment member includes a faucet connector, for connecting to the faucet, and a vacuum connector, for connecting to the vacuum generating device. The faucet connector and vacuum connector are fluidly connected by a conduit. The method for draining plumbing lines includes the step of shutting off the external supply of water to the plumbing lines. The vacuum generating device is then connected to a first faucet, and the valve to the first faucet is opened. The vacuum generating device is then activated and the valves to the remaining faucets are opened in order to create a pressure differential in the plumbing lines. The pressure differential causes water in the lines to flow into the vacuum generating device.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner hose assembly, a flexible hose therefor and methods of making the same are provided, the hose assembly comprising a flexible hose having a cuff end and a tubular tool part having an end telescoped in the cuff end and being locked therein while being rotatable relative thereto, the cuff end having a pair of axially spaced apart and inwardly directed annular convolutions provided with like facing sides, the end of the tool part having a pair of axially spaced apart and outwardly directed annular shoulders respectively engaging the sides of the annular convolutions to tend to lock the end of the tool part in the cuff end of the hose, the cuff end of the hose having an annular structure interconnecting the pair of convolutions together, the annular structure of the cuff end of the hose being annularly spaced outwardly from the tool part so as to be out of engagement therewith from one of the convolutions to the other of the convolutions.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner having a hose (13) which is connected to a vacuum cleaner housing, the outer end of the hose having a tube handle (12). The tube handle is connected to a nozzle (10) by a tube shaft (11). The tube shaft (11) is movable relative to the tube handle (12), and can be releasably locked in different positions. A device is conveniently provided to allow the operator to adjust the relative length of the tube shaft by moving the tube shaft relative to the tube handle.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a handle and wand system for a vacuum cleaner is provided which includes an enclosed electrical system which may be used to provide electrical power to a powered floor nozzle or other powered nozzles. The handle and wand system of the present invention may be employed in either a canister vacuum or a central vacuum unit. In one embodiment, the system includes a handle and suction hose assembly which permits the hose, which includes conducting wires, to be freely rotated while attached to the handle. In another embodiment, means are provided for easily attaching, locking and detaching the components of the handle and wand system of the present invention while providing both a vacuum seal and a plurality of low resistance electrical contacts between the elements of the system of the present invention. In a further embodiment, a swivel elbow is provided to attach the handle and wand system of the present invention to a powered floor nozzle.

Abstract: A method of connecting an end of a plastic, male vacuum-component to a female component in a vacuum system, by attaching an elastomeric sealing member to the end of the male vacuum-component, and inserting the end of the male vacuum-component into a female vacuum-component until the elastomeric sealing member is in at least partial contact with a mating surface-portion of the female vacuum-component, repeating the steps a plurality of times for other mating male and female vacuum-components, and then creating a vacuum in the vacuum-system in which the male vacuum-component has become part, in order to erect a stand-alone structure which is held firmly together by binding forces formed by the vacuum.

Abstract: The Invention relates specifically to an improved method of joining plastic socket fit piping components for vacuum, pressure, and structural applications where a leak and contamination free connection is needed. A unique Dual Face/Circumferential Elastomer Seal is installed in a special Seal Groove located on the end of the male component. The male components are then inserted into the female sockets until contact is made between the Dual Face/Circumferential Elastomer Seals and the Female Socket Base Surfaces. The final assembly is evacuated with a vacuum pump to actuate and fully compress the seals. The final assembly is then checked for leaks. If the connections are to remain under vacuum and the ability to disassemble is advantageous, no further work is required.

Abstract: A disposable vacuum cleaner dust bag includes a porous sheet defining a dust collection chamber having an inlet, and a substantially rigid collar secured to the sheet around said inlet. The collar provides a generally circular opening and has at least a pair of peripherally spaced radially pivotable further portions disposed about the opening and extending radially inwardly further than the remainder of the collar when the pivotable portions and the collar remainder are in the same plane. An elastic diaphragm on the collar provides a generally circular opening smaller than the opening in the collar. The collar is adapted to mount on a connector having a generally cylindrical outlet having an end through which the air is delivered by a vacuum cleaner and which provides peripherally spaced outwardly extending projections. The collar is adapted to be installed, maintained in an installed position, and removed with the pivotable portions aligned with the projections.

Abstract: A telescoping assembly especially suited for vacuum cleaner wands includes a first tube having an outer diameter and a second tube having an inner diameter which is larger than the outer diameter of the first tube. In this way, the first tube fits within the second tube in an axially sliding manner. A collet is positioned within the second tube and encircles the first tube. The collet includes a locking element for selectively securing the first tube in relation to the second tube, the locking element cooperating with a portion of the second tube upon a rotation of the collet to prevent a telescoping movement of the first tube in relation to the second tube.

Abstract: An elongated body, has internally formed a plenum chamber opening to one face of the body. A pair of side brushes mounted on the face projected outwardly thereof and being spaced laterally from each other and extending over the major length of the body. A pair of longitudinally opposed end brushes spanned transversely across the body face from one side brush to the other project outwardly of the one face in the direction of the side brushes and form with the side brushes a vacuum chamber. The tips of the side brushes are formed of bristles of a length in excess of the length of bristles formed by the side brushes, and are engageable with laterally opposed longitudinally extending opposite side edges of planar ceiling fan blades. The side brushes are spaced from each other a distance generally equal to the lateral width of the ceiling fan blades.

Abstract: A hose connector for a vacuum having a lid includes a hose inlet having opening extending through a skirt of the lid, surfaces disposed on one of the hose inlet and the connection end defining slot portions extending in a particular direction and flange portions disposed on opposite sides of the other of the hose inlet and the connection end. Each slot portion has a width sufficient to receive a flange portion. The vacuum is assembled by sliding the connection end into the opening along the particular direction before the lid is assembled on the skirt such that the flange portions are received in the slot portions. The lid is thereafter placed on the tank such that a tank receiving portion of the connection end receives a portion of the tank.

Abstract: A suction pipe coupling mechanism for vacuum cleaners in which the coupling mechanism is provided with a joint pipe on one of two suction pipes to be coupled with each other. The joint pipe is formed in a size suitable for insertion into the opening at the connecting end of the other or second suction pipe and has an elastic sealing member to be expanded radially outward against the inner periphery of the connecting end of the second suction pipe.

Abstract: A release mechanism for use with vacuum cleaning appliances having a pipe and hose arrangement, where the pipe is slidably mounted inside the hose. The release mechanism comprises an inner sleeve, an outer sleeve and actuating buttons. The inner sleeve couples the pipe to the hose. By using the actuating buttons, the inner sleeve is operational in a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the pipe can slide inside the hose, but it cannot be removed or detached from the hose. In the open position, the pipe can be removed or detached from the hose. The outer sleeve secures the release mechanism to the hose and houses the inner sleeve and actuating buttons.

Abstract: The invention relates a telescopic extension for a vacuum cleaner comprising an internal tube, an external tube, and a sleeve, wherein the internal tube is provided with a row of notches suitable for receiving a constraining element. According to an aspect of the invention said constraining element is provided with an appendix, preferably constituted by at least one small plate, with which an element of thrust is capable of coming into contact at least along a line running substantially in the direction of movement of said element of thrust, and advantageously over the entire surface of a portion of said small plate.

Abstract: An elongate flexible vacuum tube including an inner porous liner of intertwined flexible fibers of nylon or the like connectable between a vacuum source and the interior of a flexible vacuum bag covering a part formed of uncured thermosetting resin, or of superposed sections or laminae with thermosetting adhesive therebetween, under an overlying porous breather pad of intertwined fibers. An end of the liner can be positioned in intimate contact with the breather pad to form a vacuum path therewith so that a vacuum can be pulled on the part from a vacuum source, through the porous liner and breather pad, while it is being cured in an autoclave.

Abstract: Device for locking two coaxial tubes designed to be fitted into each other, comprising a longitudinal tab which is elastically flexible in the radial direction, connected to the outer tube and presenting at least one area capable of coming into axial abutment, once the two tubes have been fitted together, with a shoulder provided in register on the outer face of the inner tube and projecting radially with respect thereto. The wall of the outer tube 2 presents a groove 5, open at the end of the tube, whose lateral edges are parallel to the axis of the tube. The outer face of the inner tube 1 presents two radially projecting guide surfaces, said surfaces being parallel to the axis of the tube and spaced apart from each other by a distance substantially equal to the one separating the lateral edges of &he groove of the outer tube, whilst the free end of the locking tab 7 is located substantially in the transverse plane of the end of the outer tube.

Abstract: An electric vacuum cleaner having a body, suction generating means and a dust collection space in said body, and a rotatable hose inlet for receiving a suction hose and connecting the hose to the dust collection space. The suction hose has at one end a coupling engageable with said hose inlet. An electrical power supply cord socket is arranged to receive a plug of a power supply cord for a powered accessory of the vacuum cleaner. To avoid twisting of the cord around the hose, the cord socket is located on the hose coupling.

Abstract: A rotatable vacuum flange includes a flange ring having a recess, an insert mounted in the recess in the flange ring, the insert including a seal portion and being adapted for vacuum-tight attachment to a vacuum conduit, and a wire spring positioned between the flange ring and the insert. The wire spring retains the insert in the recess in the flange ring and permits rotation of the insert relative to the flange ring. The flange ring and the insert include grooves located in opposing alignment to receive the wire spring.

Abstract: The invention relates to a suction box for a central vacuum system, comprising a cover part (1) designed to be mounted against the exterior surface of a wall, a counterpart (2) of the cover part, designed to be mounted inside the wall, and a 90.degree. suction bend (3) designed to bend the suction tube inside the wall to a direction parallel to the plane of the wall. According to the invention, the counterpart (2) and the auction bend (3) constitute a solid integral body (4) comprising a supporting surface (5) resting against the interior surface of the wall board, a round-shaped mounting flange (6) raised from the supporting surface and designed to be placed in a hole in the wall, and curved and elongated attachment areas (7) to which the cover part (1) can be fastened.

Abstract: A handle assembly for securing a vacuum hose to an intake nozzle of a vacuum cleaner system. A handle housing having first and second mating handle housing sections and a plurality of oppositely facing ridges and oppositely facing grooved portions protruding from inner surfaces of the housing sections is adapted to house a ribbed end portion of a vacuum hose and an elbow section having a shoulder portion protruding therefrom. The ridges and grooved portions are adapted to abuttingly engage the ribbed end portion of the vacuum hose and the shoulder portion of the elbow section respectively when the first and second handle housing sections are matingly engaged, to thereby prevent clockwise or counter-clockwise rotation of the vacuum hose as the handle assembly is articulated into various positions during use. The vacuum hose further includes a relatively smooth inner surface which is operable to slide over a portion of the elbow section housed within the handle assembly housing.

Abstract: An arrangement for attaching a rigid vacuum conduit to a nozzle provides high rotational freedom between the nozzle and the rigid conduit while retaining a reasonable degree of airtightness between the conduit and the nozzle. In one form of the invention, the rigid vacuum conduit includes a coupling section of generally cylindrical form adapted to be received into an inlet opening of the nozzle. The coupling section includes a plurality of spaced grooves, each circumscribing the coupling section. The presence of the grooves reduces the frictional loading between the vacuum conduit and the inlet opening while providing a trap for dirt particles that would otherwise jam the vacuum conduit into fixed position in the nozzle. In a further version of the invention, the rigid vacuum conduit comprises metallic material. To reduce frictional loading between such metallic material and the inlet opening of the nozzle, an annular band of low friction material encircles a coupling section of the vacuum conduit.

Abstract: A permanent mounting assembly for a vacuum cleaner filter bag includes a plastic collar stitched to the porous body of the vacuum cleaner bag around the inlet opening thereof. The bag is mounted on the exterior surface of a projection on the vacuum cleaner housing. The exterior surface of the projection is provided with an annular groove. An interior rib on the collar is positioned within the groove to mechanically lock the bag on the projection of the housing. A nonelastic tie strap is positioned around the rib to permanently secure the rib in place and to provide a permanent fluidtight connection between the collar and the projection on the housing. The collar is provided with a band which is folded back to conceal the stitching, providing an attractive, neat appearance.

Abstract: A vacuum-cleaner pipe has an inner tube telescopingly received in an enlarged end of an outer tube. A retaining element diametrically opposite a slider which can be operated by the user can be received in an annular space between the tubes and on opposite sides of a guide body around which, in at least a partial turn, extends a bar spring which is braced against the guide body and not only provides the bias to the retaining element in the direction in which it presses a detent into a selected recess of a detent strip of the inner tube, but also forms the coupling between the slider and the retaining element so that upon movement of the slider in one direction, the retaining element is moved in the opposite direction.

Abstract: A hose fixture device has a cylindrical wall with projections thereon, which projections engage a corresponding mounting projection of a hose. Normally that mounting projection is a helix, so that there is a screw engagement. The projections are arranged circumferentially around the cylindrical wall with gaps therebetween. There are also gripper members, again spaced circumferentially with gaps therebetween, which grip an end of the hose. The gaps make is easy to see such engagement. The gripper members are aligned with the gaps between those projections. This provides a secure fixing of the hose to the hose fixture device. Furthermore, the device may be moulded easily. Such a hose fixture device may be used to attache a hose joint component (e.g. a suction tool) to a hose of an electric vacuum cleaner.

Abstract: A coupling of a suction nozzle, with a connector of a suction hose of a vacuum cleaner being rotatably mounted in the coupling, whereby the connector, on an end thereof that faces the suction nozzle, is provided with a larger diameter flange that for the axial fixation and rotatable mounting of the connector extends into an undercut of a cylindrical receiving opening of the coupling. A sleeve is provided between the connector and the receiving opening of the coupling. Cooperating arresting means are provided on the sleeve and the coupling for connecting the same, whereby the sleeve, together with the coupling, form the undercut thereof.

Abstract: An adapter, mounted on the cylindrical sidewall of the vacuum cleaner tank, provides a receptacle for a rigid connector on which a flexible vacuum hose is sealingly mounted. The leading edge of the connector insert is beveled. A corresponding beveled surface is formed on the inner wall of the receptacle to engage and seal with the beveled leading edge of the connector to form a continuous, peripheral seal immediately adjacent to the wall of the tank so that when the vacuum motor is turned on, a positive force is generated to increase the effectiveness of the seal.