Hi again,
 
Have any of our European contributors seen or used the new Black & Decker VN1800 bagless canister?  It claims a self cleaning filter and borrows just a little Dyson's design thought path. There's a link just below.
 
http://www.blackanddecker.co.uk/promotion/product-tours/cylindervac/
 
As well, state side, there's the B&D Pivot Vac, a rechargable vacuum also with a filter cleaning mechanism claim to prolong optimum suction.  It seems to be competition for the little gadget from Dyson -- and -- it sells for about sixty bucks.
 
Venson