Cyclone Dirt Outlet Gap Structure for Better Dirt Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cyclonic surface cleaning apparatuses face inefficiencies in dirt collection due to uniform dirt outlet gaps, which can lead to inconsistent dirt separation and airflow management.
Innovation Solution
A cyclone design with a non-uniform dirt outlet gap, featuring a plate with a variable sidewall and a cyclone having a longitudinally extending sidewall of varying lengths, creating distinct portions of the gap to enhance dirt collection and airflow passage efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a uniform dirt outlet gap is used in cyclonic surface cleaning apparatuses, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but dirt collection efficiency is inconsistent and airflow management is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a non-uniform gap structure where different portions of the gap have different dimensions. Specifically, the gap between the plate and cyclone casing varies in height around the circumference, with some areas having larger gaps and others having smaller gaps. This localized variation optimizes dirt collection efficiency in different regions while maintaining an overall simple structural design.
Solution Approach 2:
The gap structure is segmented into multiple portions with different characteristics. The plate is positioned at a specific distance from the cyclone casing, creating distinct gap regions that can be optimized independently. This segmentation allows different parts of the gap to serve different functions in airflow management and dirt separation.
2Manufacturing precision
If the plate is positioned close to the cyclone open end, then the gap is small which may improve separation, but airflow passage is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the gap parameter by positioning the plate at a specifically designed distance from the cyclone casing open end. This distance is carefully selected to balance two competing requirements: maintaining a small enough gap for effective dirt separation while preserving sufficient airflow passage. The gap dimension is treated as a critical parameter that directly influences both separation quality and airflow rate.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the sidewall of the plate extends fully around the plate, then the gap uniformity is improved, but dirt collection efficiency decreases due to restricted airflow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent deliberately introduces asymmetry by providing the plate sidewall extension only in specific portions around the circumference rather than uniformly all around. This asymmetric configuration creates a non-uniform gap pattern that optimizes both airflow characteristics and dirt collection efficiency. The asymmetric design allows certain regions to have extended sidewalls while other regions maintain open gaps for airflow.
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
This design improves dirt collection efficiency and airflow management by optimizing the dirt outlet gap, allowing for better separation of dirt and air, and enhancing the overall cleaning performance of cyclonic surface cleaning apparatuses.
Implementation Method 1
Cyclonic surface cleaning apparatuses face inefficiencies in dirt collection
Implementation Method 2
cyclone having an open end, wherein the open end comprises the dirt outlet of the cyclone
Data Source
AI summary
A surface cleaning apparatus comprises a cyclone having an open end dirt outlet and a plate facing the open end, the height of a gap between the plate the open end is not constant.