Cleaner

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users of trigger-type cleaner devices experience burden from needing to continuously pull the trigger switch to maintain suction, as releasing the finger deactivates the motor, disrupting continuous operation.

Innovation Solution

A cleaner design incorporating a trigger switch and a slide switch that allows for continuous operation without manual finger activation, where the slide switch locks the trigger switch in the activated position using a mechanical mechanism, enabling sustained suction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the trigger switch is released to reduce user burden, then the motor stops running, but continuous suction cannot be maintained

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser burdenVSAvoidcontinuous suction

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The locking member is preliminarily positioned to engage with the locking groove before the user releases the trigger. This preliminary engagement ensures that the trigger is already secured in the pulled position, preventing any interruption in motor operation and maintaining continuous suction without requiring ongoing user intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent ensures continuous useful action by implementing a locking mechanism that maintains the trigger in the activated position indefinitely once locked. The motor continues to run without interruption because the circuit remains closed through the locked trigger switch, enabling sustained suction operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

2Extent of automation

If the trigger switch structure is simplified to reduce complexity, then the locking mechanism cannot be implemented, but continuous operation without finger pressure is not achieved

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic lockingVSAvoidswitch structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the triggering function and the locking function into a single integrated trigger switch assembly. The locking member is incorporated as part of the trigger structure itself, and the locking groove is formed within the handle housing near the trigger. This integration achieves automatic locking capability without adding separate, complex locking systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The locking member acts as an intermediary element between the trigger and the circuit. It mediates the transition from manual holding to automatic locking by physically blocking the trigger's return to the unactivated position, thereby maintaining circuit closure and motor operation without requiring additional complex control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11647884B2Cleaner

Publication Date: 2023.05.16 MAKITA CORP

AI summary

A cleaner includes a main body, a handle, a first switch member, and a second switch member. The main body generates a suction force to suck in dust with air by a motor. The handle is to be held by a user. The first switch member is disposed movably on the handle and switches between supplying and not supplying power to the motor by being moved. The second switch member is disposed movably on the handle and, by being moved, moves the first switch member so as to switch between supplying and not supplying power to the motor.