Integrated Bag Door Handle for Easy Filter Bag Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing upright floor cleaners with filter bags face challenges in easy access and retention of the filter bag, making maintenance and replacement cumbersome.

Innovation Solution

A floor cleaner design featuring a pivotably mounted handle assembly with a door that includes a latch structure and closure assembly, allowing the door to be removably coupled to the handle assembly, enabling easy access and secure closure of the dust cavity, and facilitating lifting and carrying of the device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a filter bag door is used to access the filter bag, then the filter bag can be removed and replaced, but the door and latch structure adds device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter bag accessVSAvoiddoor and latch structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The door assembly is segmented into separable components (door panel, latch mechanism, mounting brackets) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This allows the complex door structure to be broken down into simpler sub-assemblies, making it easier to manufacture and maintain while still providing secure filter bag retention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The latch mechanism incorporates movable components that transition between locked and unlocked states. The dynamic latch allows the door to be securely retained during operation but easily opened when needed, providing operational flexibility without requiring a permanently complex structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If the door is securely attached to the handle assembly, then the dust cavity is sealed, but the door becomes difficult to remove for filter bag maintenance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedust cavity closureVSAvoiddoor removal
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The latch mechanism is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to maintain a secure locked state during normal operation while enabling easy transition to an unlocked state for door removal. The movable latch components provide reliable sealing when engaged but allow quick access when disengaged.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The door assembly includes self-latching features that automatically engage when the door is closed, ensuring reliable dust cavity sealing without requiring additional fastening operations. Conversely, the latch can be easily disengaged by simple manual action, allowing users to service the filter bag without tools or complex procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8661610B2Integrated bag door and carry handle for a floor cleaner
Publication Date: 2014.03.04 TECHTRONIC FLOOR CARE TECH LTD
  • US8661610B2 patent drawing
  • US8661610B2 patent drawing
  • US8661610B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A floor cleaner including a nozzle and a handle assembly pivotably mounted to the nozzle. The handle assembly including a handle, a motor housing supporting a suction source in fluid communication with the nozzle, and a bag housing. A door is removably coupled to the bag housing and includes a door handle and a filter bag retaining structure.