US Patent 7377007 Vacuum cleaner with detachable vacuum module

A multi-use, dual power mode vacuum cleaner (10) that can be used as an upright vacuum cleaner or as a portable, hand-carried vacuum cleaner comprises a detachable vacuum module (16) selectively mounted to an upright handle assembly (12). The detachable vacuum module (16) includes a motor and fan assembly (64) for creating a working air flow, a particle separator (48) for separating dirt form the working air flow and a portable power source (104) for providing power to the motor and fan assembly (64). The particle separator can be a cyclone separator (48) or a bag separator.