US Patent 7186283 Vacuum cleaner

A cyclonic vacuum cleaner includes a separating unit for separating dirt and dust from a dirt-laden airflow which is drawn in by the cleaner. The separating unit has a chamber with a collection area for collecting dirt and dust which is separated from the airflow. A base of the separating unit is movable between a closed position in which the closure member seals the chamber and an open position by operation of a releasing means. The releasing means is inhibited from releasing the base when the unit is stowed on the chassis of the cleaner.