Home vacuum cleaners

	Equipped with a proximity sensor, model SU SU 211 from Shenzhen Universal has a nonmarring bumper and a docking station.

The latest releases come in fully automatic designs that detect stair edges and create less noise without compromising power.

Suppliers in China are stepping up production of vacuum cleaners with wider capability. Such models may have reduced audible output as well.

Makers are developing more robotic products. These high-end units are fully automatic, although some feature manual instruction via remote control.

Further, such releases come with sensors that allow operation along the perimeter of a wall or in a spiral pattern. Components that detect stair edges can also be installed.

Robotic units have one-third or one-fourth the capacity of regular versions but are priced two or three times higher. The difference in quotes is mainly due to the complexity and cost of the parts incorporated.

A growing number of vacuum cleaners utilize components for sterilizing. These include steam generators and mops. Products can be used to kill mites and bacteria while eliminating unpleasant odors.

Many of the latest releases generate less noise during operation. This is done without installing smaller or less-powerful motors, steps that may impact performance. Instead, companies are employing components such as sound-dampening cotton.

	Model BZ-998A from Boze features a sterilizer function and has an electromagnetic valve.

China makers typically employ ABS as the main housing material. Some models, however, come in PP or steel.

Filtration systems utilize different types of media, including sponge, paper and cloth. HEPA versions may be added.

Products meet GS, CE, UL and RoHS requirements. For safety, wet and dry units are fitted with circuit breakers.

Priced at $15 to $20, most low-end vacuum cleaners are of the miniature or handheld type. Many have rechargeable batteries or are DC-powered. Bagged canister models are also available.

Releases are usually between 100 and 800W. These come with basic accessories such as telescopic plastic tubes, and can only be used to suction dust. Housings are made of PP or ABS.

At most companies, midrange vacuum cleaners account for the majority of output. Various configurations are available, including canister, cylinder, upright and cyclone. The last type employs centrifugal force instead of traditional filters.

Models generate 1,000 to 2,000W of power. HEPA filters may be adopted. Locally sourced versions of this component have an efficiency of 90 to 95 percent, while imported parts function at a 99.8 percent.

Temperature controllers are incorporated to prevent overheating. Stepless speed settings and capacity indicators can also be installed.

Many of the latest releases in this category have convenience features such as LCDs, automatic cord rewinders and remote controls.

Midrange products come with accessories such as floor, carpet and upholstery brushes, and extra dust bags.

Housings are made of ABS or stainless steel. Quotes can reach $30.

The majority of high-end vacuum cleaners are capable of autonomous operation.

The sensors of robotic units include virtual wall detectors that enable preselection of cleaning limits. The use of nonmarking bumpers permits directional changes after impacting a physical barrier.

Some upscale models come with docking stations that incorporate navigation systems. Such allow the appliance to automatically return for recharging when the battery is low.

A number of high-end releases generate UV light for sterilizing and perform mopping. Prices top $100.

Most makers export 70 percent of their output. China’s total annual shipment accounts for more than

60 percent of global supply. The US, the UK, Germany and Japan are the main overseas destinations.

The majority of suppliers are locally owned. Some cooperate with foreign-invested enterprises. Various household appliances are offered.

Jiangsu province has an extensive history of manufacturing and exporting vacuum cleaners. It is home to about 600 makers. Guangdong and Zhejiang are other significant sourcing centers for the line. These are backed by material and component specialists.