Retractable hose extension for a vacuum

• US 20050246854A1
• Filed: 05/10/2004
• Published: 11/10/2005
• Est. Priority Date: 05/10/2004
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: John H. Stockton
• Original Assignee: John H. Stockton
• Inventors: Stockton, John H.
• Granted Patent: US 7,640,620 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 15/323
• CPC Class Codes: A47L 5/38 Built-in suction cleaner installations, i.e. with fixed tube system to which, at different stations, hoses can be connected
• CPC Class Codes: A47L 9/0036 specially adapted for holding the suction hose
• CPC Class Codes: A47L 9/0063 External storing devices; Stands, casings or the like for the storage of suction cleaners
• CPC Class Codes: A47L 9/244 for telescopic or extensible hoses or pipes
• CPC Class Codes: B08B 15/00 Preventing escape of dirt or fumes from the area where they are produced; Collecting or removing dirt or fumes from that area parts, details or accessories of cooking-vessels for withdrawing or condensing cooking vapours from such vessels A47J36/38; refuse disposal B65F; devices for conducting smoke or fumes, e.g. flues, F23J11/00; removing cooking fumes from domestic stoves or ranges F24C15/20; air conditioning, ventilation F24F
• CPC Class Codes: F16L 11/112 having reinforcements embedded in the wall

Abstract

A retractable hose extension for a vacuum having an expandable hose within a containment structure, a first coupling at the first end of the hose and in the first end of the containment structure for connecting the hose to a vacuum, a valve at the second end of the hose, and either a door or other releasable retention device for the hose. Preferably, the valve is an iris valve. Two fixed embodiment and one portable embodiment exist. The first fixed embodiment is inserted within a wall. The second fixed embodiment is rotatably attached to a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from a vacuum system.

Claims

1. A retractable hose extension for a vacuum, which comprises:

an expandable hose having a first end and a second end;

a containment structure having a first end, a second end which is sufficiently open that said hose can pass through it, and a longitudinal axis;

a first coupling located in the first end of said containment structure, said first coupling having a first end available for connection to, and fluid communication with, a vacuum system and also having a second end that is connected to and in fluid communication with a first end of said hose;

a valve of such dimensions that said valve can pass through the second end of said containment structure, said valve having a first end attached to, and in fluid communication with, said hose and said valve also having a second end; and

a means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure.

2. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 1, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a side with a door in the side of the wall and with said containment structure being located so close to said door that, unless said door is opened, said hose cannot leave said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

3. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 1, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a means for allowing access to said hose and further comprising, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

4. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 1, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a means for allowing access to said hose and further comprising;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

5. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 1, further comprising:

a means for rotatably attaching the first end of said containment structure to a free end of a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from, as well as being in fluid communication with, a vacuum system so that said containment structure can be moved horizontally with respect to the tube while having said containment structure remain substantially horizontal.

6. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 5, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

7. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 5, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

8. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 1, further comprising:

a means for rotatably attaching the first end of said containment structure to a free end of a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from, as well as being in fluid communication with, a vacuum system so that said containment structure can be moved horizontally with respect to the tube while having said containment structure remain substantially vertical.

9. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 8, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

10. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 8, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

11. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 1, further comprising:

a handle attached to said containment structure.

12. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 11, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

13. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 11, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

14. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 1, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing a door in an aperture, with such aperture being of such dimensions that said hose and said valve can pass through such aperture when the door has been opened, and with the second end of said containment structure being attached to said carrying case sufficiently near said door that, unless said door is opened, said hose cannot leave said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

15. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 14, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

16. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 14, wherein:

said door is selected from the group consisting of a hinged door attached to the second end of said carrying case and having a lock, a sliding door that slides along an external surface of the second end of said carrying case and is slid upward from a stop to permit the second end of said hose to leave said containment structure, a zipper, buttons and mating apertures therefor, snaps, and hook and loop fasteners.

17. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 16, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

18. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 1, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing an aperture, and wherein said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises—

attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure—

a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

19. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 18, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

20. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 1, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing an aperture, and wherein said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

21. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 20, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

22. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 1, wherein:

said expandable hose is so constructed that, when fully extended, said expandable hose exerts neither a retracting nor and extending force.

23. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 22, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a side with a door in the side of the wall and with said containment structure being located so close to said door that, unless said door is opened, said hose cannot leave said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

24. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 22, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a means for allowing access to said hose and further comprising, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

25. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 22, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a means for allowing access to said hose and further comprising;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

26. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 22, further comprising:

a means for rotatably attaching the first end of said containment structure to a free end of a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from, as well as being in fluid communication with, a vacuum system so that said containment structure can be moved horizontally with respect to the tube while having said containment structure remain substantially horizontal.

27. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 26, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

28. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 26, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

29. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 22, further comprising:

a means for rotatably attaching the first end of said containment structure to a free end of a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from, as well as being in fluid communication with, a vacuum system so that said containment structure can be moved horizontally with respect to the tube while having said containment structure remain substantially vertical.

30. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 29, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

31. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 29, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

32. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 22, further comprising:

a handle attached to said containment structure.

33. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 32, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

34. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 32, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

35. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 22, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing a door in an aperture, with such aperture being of such dimensions that said hose and said valve can pass through such aperture when the door has been opened, and with the second end of said containment structure being attached to said carrying case sufficiently near said door that, unless said door is opened, said hose cannot leave said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

36. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 35, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

37. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 35, wherein:

said door is selected from the group consisting of a hinged door attached to the second end of said carrying case and having a lock, a sliding door that slides along an external surface of the second end of said carrying case and is slid upward from a stop to permit the second end of said hose to leave said containment structure, a zipper, buttons and mating apertures therefor, snaps, and hook and loop fasteners.

38. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 37, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

39. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 22, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing an aperture, and wherein said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises—

attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure—

a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

40. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 39, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

41. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 22, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing an aperture, and wherein said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

42. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 41, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

43. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 22, wherein:

said valve is an iris valve.

44. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 43, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a side with a door in the side of the wall and with said containment structure being located so close to said door that, unless said door is opened, said hose cannot leave said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

45. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 43, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a means for allowing access to said hose and further comprising, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

46. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 43, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a means for allowing access to said hose and further comprising;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

47. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 43, further comprising:

a means for rotatably attaching the first end of said containment structure to a free end of a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from, as well as being in fluid communication with, a vacuum system so that said containment structure can be moved horizontally with respect to the tube while having said containment structure remain substantially horizontal.

48. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 47, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

49. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 47, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

50. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 43, further comprising:

a means for rotatably attaching the first end of said containment structure to a free end of a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from, as well as being in fluid communication with, a vacuum system so that said containment structure can be moved horizontally with respect to the tube while having said containment structure remain substantially vertical.

51. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 50, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

52. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 50, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

53. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 43, further comprising:

a handle attached to said containment structure.

54. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 53, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

55. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 53, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

56. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 43, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing a door in an aperture, such aperture being of such dimensions that said hose and said valve can pass through such aperture when the door has been opened, and with the second end of said containment structure being attached to said carrying case sufficiently near said door that, unless said door is opened, said hose cannot leave said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

57. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 56, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

58. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 56, wherein:

said door is selected from the group consisting of a hinged door attached to the second end of said carrying case and having a lock, a sliding door that slides along an external surface of the second end of said carrying case and is slid upward from a stop to permit the second end of said hose to leave said containment structure, a zipper, buttons and mating apertures therefor, snaps, and hook and loop fasteners.

59. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 58, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

60. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 43, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing an aperture, and wherein said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises—

attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure—

a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

61. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 60, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

62. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 43, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing an aperture, and wherein said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

63. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 62, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

64. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 43, further comprising:

a second coupling of such dimensions that said second coupling can pass through the second end of said containment structure, said second coupling having a first end and a second end with the first end of said second coupling attached to the second end of said valve so that said second coupling is in fluid communication with said valve, the second end of said second coupling being constructed to connect to, and be in fluid communication with, traditional vacuum attachments.

65. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 64, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a side with a door in the side of the wall and with said containment structure being located so close to said door that, unless said door is opened, said hose cannot leave said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

66. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 64, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a means for allowing access to said hose and further comprising, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

67. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 64, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a means for allowing access to said hose and further comprising;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

68. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 64, further comprising:

a means for rotatably attaching the first end of said containment structure to a free end of a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from, as well as being in fluid communication with, a vacuum system so that said containment structure can be moved horizontally with respect to the tube while having said containment structure remain substantially horizontal.

69. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 68, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

70. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 68, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

71. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 64, further comprising:

a means for rotatably attaching the first end of said containment structure to a free end of a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from, as well as being in fluid communication with, a vacuum system so that said containment structure can be moved horizontally with respect to the tube while having said containment structure remain substantially vertical.

72. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 71, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

73. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 71, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

74. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 64, further comprising:

a handle attached to said containment structure.

75. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 74, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

76. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 74, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

77. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 64, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing a door in an aperture, such aperture being of such dimensions that said hose and said valve and said second coupling can pass through such aperture when the door has been opened, and with the second end of said containment structure being attached to said carrying case sufficiently near said door that, unless said door is opened, said hose cannot leave said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

78. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 77, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

79. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 77, wherein:

said door is selected from the group consisting of a hinged door attached to the second end of said carrying case and having a lock, a sliding door that slides along an external surface of the second end of said carrying case and is slid upward from a stop to permit the second end of said hose to leave said containment structure, a zipper, buttons and mating apertures therefor, snaps, and hook and loop fasteners.

80. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 79, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

81. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 64, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing an aperture, and wherein said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises—

attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure—

a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

82. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 81, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

83. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 64, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing an aperture, and wherein said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

84. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 83, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

85. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 22, further comprising:

a second coupling of such dimensions that said second coupling can pass through the second end of said containment structure, said second coupling having a first end and a second end with the first end of said second coupling attached to the second end of said valve so that said second coupling is in fluid communication with said valve, the second end of said second coupling being constructed to connect to, and be in fluid communication with, traditional vacuum attachments.

86. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 85, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a side with a door in the side of the wall and with said containment structure being located so close to said door that, unless said door is opened, said hose cannot leave said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

87. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 85, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a means for allowing access to said hose and further comprising, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

88. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 85, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a means for allowing access to said hose and further comprising;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

89. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 85, further comprising:

a means for rotatably attaching the first end of said containment structure to a free end of a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from, as well as being in fluid communication with, a vacuum system so that said containment structure can be moved horizontally with respect to the tube while having said containment structure remain substantially horizontal.

90. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 89, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

91. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 89, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

92. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 85, further comprising:

a means for rotatably attaching the first end of said containment structure to a free end of a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from, as well as being in fluid communication with, a vacuum system so that said containment structure can be moved horizontally with respect to the tube while having said containment structure remain substantially vertical.

93. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 92, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

94. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 92, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure- comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

95. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 85, further comprising:

a handle attached to said containment structure.

96. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 95, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

97. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 95, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

98. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 85, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing a door in an aperture, carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing a door in an aperture, such aperture being of such dimensions that said hose and said valve and said second coupling can pass through such aperture when the door has been opened, and with the second end of said containment structure being attached to said carrying case sufficiently near said door that, unless said door is opened, said hose cannot leave said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

99. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 98, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

100. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 98, wherein:

said door is selected from the group consisting of a hinged door attached to the second end of said carrying case and having a lock, a sliding door that slides along an external surface of the second end of said carrying case and is slid upward from a stop to permit the second end of said hose to leave said containment structure, a zipper, buttons and mating apertures therefor, snaps, and hook and loop fasteners.

101. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 100, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

102. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 85, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing an aperture, and wherein said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises—

-attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure—

a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

103. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 102, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

104. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 85, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing an aperture, and wherein said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

105. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 104, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

106. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 1, wherein:

said valve is an iris valve.

107. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 106, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a side with a door in the side of the wall and with said containment structure being located so close to said door that, unless said door is opened, said hose cannot leave said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

108. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 106, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a means for allowing access to said hose and further comprising, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

109. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 106, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a means for allowing access to said hose and further comprising;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

110. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 106, further comprising:

a means for rotatably attaching the first end of said containment structure to a free end of a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from, as well as being in fluid communication with, a vacuum system so that said containment structure can be moved horizontally with respect to the tube while having said containment structure remain substantially horizontal.

111. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 110, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

112. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 110, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

113. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 106, further comprising:

a means for rotatably attaching the first end of said containment structure to a free end of a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from, as well as being in fluid communication with, a vacuum system so that said containment structure can be moved horizontally with respect to the tube while having said containment structure remain substantially vertical.

114. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 113, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

115. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 113, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

116. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 106, further comprising:

a handle attached to said containment structure.

117. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 116, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

118. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 116, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

119. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 106, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing a door in an aperture, with such aperture being of such dimensions that said hose and said valve can pass through such aperture when the door has been opened, and with the second end of said containment structure being attached to said carrying case sufficiently near said door that, unless said door is opened, said hose cannot leave said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

120. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 119, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

121. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 119, wherein:

said door is selected from the group consisting of a hinged door attached to the second end of said carrying case and having a lock, a sliding door that slides along an external surface of the second end of said carrying case and is slid upward from a stop to permit the second end of said hose to leave said containment structure, a zipper, buttons and mating apertures therefor, snaps, and hook and loop fasteners.

122. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 121, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

123. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 106, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing an aperture, and wherein said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises—

attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure—

a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

124. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 123, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

125. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 106, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing an aperture, and wherein said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said valve.

126. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 125, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

127. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 106, further comprising:

a second coupling of such dimensions that said second coupling can pass through the second end of said containment structure, said second coupling having a first end and a second end with the first end of said second coupling attached to the second end of said valve so that said second coupling is in fluid communication with said valve, the second end of said second coupling being constructed to connect to, and be in fluid communication with, traditional vacuum attachments.

128. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 127, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a side with a door in the side of the wall and with said containment structure being located so close to said door that, unless said door is opened, said hose cannot leave said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

129. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 127, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a means for allowing access to said hose and further comprising, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

130. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 127, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a means for allowing access to said hose and further comprising;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

131. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 127, further comprising:

a means for rotatably attaching the first end of said containment structure to a free end of a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from, as well as being in fluid communication with, a vacuum system so that said containment structure can be moved horizontally with respect to the tube while having said containment structure remain substantially horizontal.

132. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 131, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

133. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 131, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

134. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 127, further comprising:

a means for rotatably attaching the first end of said containment structure to a free end of a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from, as well as being in fluid communication with, a vacuum system so that said containment structure can be moved horizontally with respect to the tube while having said containment structure remain substantially vertical.

135. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 134, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached said containment structure near to the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

136. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 134, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

137. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 127, further comprising:

a handle attached to said containment structure.

138. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 137, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

139. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 137, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

140. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 127, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing a door in an aperture, such aperture being of such dimensions that said hose and said valve and said second coupling can pass through such aperture when the door has been opened, and with the second end of said containment structure being attached to said carrying case sufficiently near said door that, unless said door is opened, said hose cannot leave said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

141. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 140, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

142. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 140, wherein:

said door is selected from the group consisting of a hinged door attached to the second end of said carrying case and having a lock, a sliding door that slides along an external surface of the second end of said carrying case and is slid upward from a stop to permit the second end of said hose to leave said containment structure, a zipper, buttons and mating apertures therefor, snaps, and hook and loop fasteners.

143. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 142, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

144. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 127, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing an aperture, and wherein said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises—

attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure—

a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

145. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 144, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

146. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 127, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing an aperture, and wherein said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

147. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 146, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

148. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 1, further comprising:

a second coupling of such dimensions that said second coupling can pass through the second end of said containment structure, said second coupling having a first end and a second end with the first end of said second coupling attached to the second end of said valve so that said second coupling is in fluid communication with said valve, the second end of said second coupling being constructed to connect to, and be in fluid communication with, traditional vacuum attachments.

149. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 148, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a side with a door in the side of the wall and with said containment structure being located so close to said door that, unless said door is opened, said hose cannot leave said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

150. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 148, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a means for allowing access to said hose and further comprising, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

151. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 148, wherein:

said containment structure is installed within a wall having a means for allowing access to said hose and further comprising;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

152. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 148, further comprising:

a means for rotatably attaching the first end of said containment structure to a free end of a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from, as well as being in fluid communication with, a vacuum system so that said containment structure can be moved horizontally with respect to the tube while having said containment structure remain substantially horizontal.

153. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 152, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

154. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 152, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

155. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 148, further comprising:

a means for rotatably attaching the first end of said containment structure to a free end of a tube contained within or running below a ceiling and extending from, as well as being in fluid communication with, a vacuum system so that said containment structure can be moved horizontally with respect to the tube while having said containment structure remain substantially vertical.

156. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 155, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

157. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 155, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

158. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 148, further comprising:

a handle attached to said containment structure.

159. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 158, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises, attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure, a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

160. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 158, wherein:

said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

161. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 148, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing a door in an aperture, such aperture being of such dimensions that said hose and said valve and said second coupling can pass through such aperture when the door has been opened, and with the second end of said containment structure being attached to said carrying case sufficiently near said door that, unless said door is opened, said hose cannot leave said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

162. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 161, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

163. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 161, wherein:

said door is selected from the group consisting of a hinged door attached to the second end of said carrying case and having a lock, a sliding door that slides along an external surface of the second end of said carrying case and is slid upward from a stop to permit the second end of said hose to leave said containment structure, a zipper, buttons and mating apertures therefor, snaps, and hook and loop fasteners.

164. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 163, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

165. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 148, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing an aperture, and wherein said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises—

attached to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure—

a door that when closed, precludes said hose from leaving said containment structure sufficiently far to depart substantially from the longitudinal axis of said containment structure.

166. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 165, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.

167. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 148, further comprising:

a carrying case having a first end and a second end with said containment structure placed in said carrying case, with the first end of said containment structure constituting a portion of the first end of said carrying case, with the second end of said carrying case containing an aperture, and wherein said means for releasably retaining said hose within said containment structure comprises;

a first portion of a releasable retention device connected to said containment structure near the second end of said containment structure; and

a mating portion of said releasable retention device attached to said second coupling.

168. The retractable hose extension for a vacuum as recited in claim 167, wherein:

said carrying case is constructed to contain one or more traditional vacuum attachments.