Modular Blower Vacuum With Flywheel Cooling and Quick Mode Switching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handheld blower/vacuums are cumbersome and difficult to switch between blower and vacuum functions, often requiring the carrying of inactive components and causing operator fatigue due to weight and design inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A handheld blower/vacuum design featuring a mixed-flow fan member with both axial and centrifugal fan configurations, allowing for easy switching between blower and vacuum modes using the same base with removably attachable assemblies, and incorporating a flywheel for cooling and increased air flow velocity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If both blower nozzle and vacuum tube are combined in a single tool, then switching between functions becomes possible, but the tool becomes cumbersome and weighty causing operator fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The blower/vacuum tool is divided into separable components: a base unit and interchangeable attachments (blower nozzle and vacuum tube). This segmentation allows the operator to use only the necessary component for each task, reducing the weight carried during operation while maintaining versatility through quick attachment changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static combined tool to a dynamic configuration where components can be quickly attached and detached. This dynamic approach enables the operator to adapt the tool weight and configuration based on operational needs, carrying only the necessary components for each specific task.
2Adaptability or versatility
If components are detached and reattached to switch functions, then versatility is achieved, but the switching process becomes cumbersome and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is segmented into modular components with standardized connection interfaces. The blower nozzle and vacuum tube are designed as separate attachments that connect to and disconnect from the base unit through simple, intuitive mechanisms, making function switching quick and easy without requiring complex assembly or disassembly procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a combined blower nozzle and vacuum tube is used, then function switching is enabled, but the inactive component must be carried during operation of the other function
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the tool into a base unit and separate interchangeable attachments, the operator only needs to carry the base unit and attach the specific component needed for the current task. This eliminates the need to carry both the blower nozzle and vacuum tube simultaneously, reducing the total quantity of components to carry while maintaining dual function capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate both blower and vacuum attachments. This multi-functionality at the base level, combined with specialized attachments, allows the operator to use a single core component for both functions, reducing the number of items to carry.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and ergonomic operation by allowing seamless switching between blower and vacuum functions without the need to carry inactive components, reducing operator fatigue and improving performance through enhanced air flow and cooling.
Implementation Method 1
Rotation of the flywheel generates a cooling air flow that directs the ambient air across the power source to cool the power source during operation thereof
Implementation Method 2
A fan member has a first fan formed on one side thereof and a second fan formed on an opposing side thereof, and the fan member is rotatably driven by the drive shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A blower including a base having a housing, a handle extending from the housing, a power source positioned within the housing, the blower including: a drive shaft extending forwardly from the power source, wherein the drive shaft is rotatable by the power source; a fan member operatively connected to the drive shaft; a flywheel extending rearwardly from the power source, the flywheel being positioned adjacent to a rear of the housing; and at least one rear vent formed into the rear of the housing adjacent to the flywheel, wherein rotation of the flywheel draws ambient air into the housing through the at least one rear vent, and rotation of the flywheel generates a cooling air flow that directs the ambient air across the power source to cool the power source during operation thereof.