Console-Integrated Vehicle Vacuum Module for Space-Saving Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle vacuum cleaning systems occupy excessive space, are inconveniently located, and require extensive modifications, increasing installation costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A compact vacuum module integrated into a vehicle console with a debris container, motor, and filter assembly, secured by a mounting flange, allowing for easy installation and operation without significant vehicle modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a vehicle vacuum cleaning system is installed within the vehicle, then convenience of operation is improved, but the amount of interior space occupied increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum module is nested within the console's storage cavity. The housing is received within the storage cavity and secured by a mounting flange, allowing the vacuum system to occupy unused interior space without adding to the vehicle's exterior dimensions or compromising passenger space.
Solution Approach 2:
The vacuum system utilizes the vertical dimension of the console storage cavity rather than horizontal space. By positioning the vacuum module within the console's depth and height, the design accommodates the vacuum system without encroaching on footwell or seating space.
2Ease of operation
If a vehicle vacuum cleaning system is installed within the vehicle, then convenience of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum system is segmented into modular components: a housing with motor and airflow path, a separately removable debris container with filter assembly, and a mounting flange for installation. This modularity simplifies installation and maintenance while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The debris container and filter assembly are extracted as separate removable components from the main housing. The filter assembly is removably connected to the debris container base, allowing easy access for cleaning and maintenance without disassembling the entire vacuum system.
3Volume of moving object
If a vehicle vacuum cleaning system is installed within the vehicle, then space occupancy is reduced, but ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting flange is pre-integrated into the housing design with alignment features that engage with the console's mounting surface. This preliminary design of the mounting interface enables straightforward installation without requiring complex vehicle modifications or specialized installation procedures.
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
Facilitates convenient operation and reduces space occupancy within vehicles, enabling easy installation and removal with minimal modifications, enhancing user experience and reducing installation complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a motor connected to the housing and operable to generate air flow through the debris container from the inlet to the outlet
Implementation Method 2
The debris container includes a filter assembly removably connected to a base of the debris container
Data Source
AI summary
A vacuum module for installation in a console located in a passenger compartment of a vehicle includes a housing defining a receptacle, a debris container received within the receptacle and removably connected to the housing by a latch, and a motor connected to the housing and operable to generate air flow through the debris container from an inlet of the vacuum module to an outlet of the vacuum module. The housing includes a mounting flange that engages a mounting surface of the console to secure the vacuum module within a storage cavity of the console. The debris container includes a filter assembly removably connected to a base of the debris container. The vacuum module defines a single unit that is removable from the console.