You can freely build on How James Spangler Invented the First Portable Electric Vacuum Cleaner

What this patent covers

The device uses an electric motor to drive both a rotating brush and a suction fan. The brush loosens dust and dirt from carpet fibers, while the fan creates a vacuum that pulls the debris through a nozzle. The dirt is then captured in a cloth bag attached to the handle, allowing for portable floor cleaning.

What is now free to use

All 0 claims of US 889823 are in the public domain. Specifically:

The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.

What is NOT covered

Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.

• Does not cover non-electric carpet sweepers that rely solely on manual pushing to spin brushes.

• Does not cover central vacuum systems where the motor and collection bin are permanently installed in a wall.

• Does not cover robotic or autonomous navigation systems.

Who is building on this today

The Hoover Company remains the primary legacy of this patent, having commercialized the technology globally. Modern manufacturers like Dyson and Shark continue to iterate on the core concept of combining agitation and suction.

Products built on expired version of this technology

How to cite this patent in your documentation

Individual. US Patent 889823. Carpet sweeper and cleaner.. Granted 1908, expired 1927. Now in the public domain.

Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.

PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.