Cyclone Vacuum Motor-Fan Layout for Compact Airflow Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vacuum cleaners with cyclonic separation apparatus face challenges in efficiently utilizing space, leading to increased size and weight, particularly in compact designs like hand-holdable models, where space optimization is crucial for effective dust and dirt collection without the need for frequent filter replacements.
Innovation Solution
A motor, fan, and cyclonic separation apparatus arrangement where the motor and fan are coaxially positioned with the cyclones, forming a compact circular array, allowing for a more efficient use of space and improved separation efficiency by clustering the components and reducing the air flow path between cyclones and the fan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the motor and fan are positioned separately from the cyclones in conventional arrangements, then the components can be individually serviced and manufactured, but the overall apparatus occupies excessive space and increases weight
Solution Approach 1:
The motor and fan are merged into a single integrated unit that is positioned centrally within the cyclonic separation apparatus. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate motor housing and fan mounting structures, thereby reducing overall space occupancy while maintaining serviceability of individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
The fan is nested within the motor housing structure, with the fan blades positioned inside the motor casing. This nested arrangement allows the fan to be housed within the existing motor volume, significantly reducing the total space required for both components compared to side-by-side conventional arrangements.
2Reliability
If the air flow path between cyclones and fan is lengthened in conventional arrangements, then each component can be optimally positioned for its function, but the separation efficiency diminishes and collection chamber performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The motor and fan unit is extracted from its conventional separate position and repositioned to the center of the cyclone array. This strategic repositioning shortens the air flow path from the cyclone outlets to the fan inlet, thereby maintaining high separation efficiency while optimizing the spatial arrangement of all components.
Solution Approach 2:
The air flow path is optimized by transitioning from a linear or lateral arrangement to a radial configuration where air flows directly from the cyclone periphery toward the centrally positioned fan. This dimensional change in the flow path geometry reduces the effective length and improves flow efficiency.
3Volume of moving object
If the cyclonic separation apparatus is designed for compactness, then space usage is minimized, but the collection chamber volume may be insufficient for effective dust and dirt collection
Solution Approach 1:
The collection chamber is designed with a conical geometry that efficiently utilizes vertical space. By transitioning from a cylindrical to a conical shape, the chamber achieves optimal volume within a compact footprint, maximizing dust collection capacity while maintaining overall apparatus compactness.
Solution Approach 2:
The collection chamber incorporates a multi-layered structure with different material properties optimized for specific functions. This composite design allows for enhanced structural integrity and increased effective collection volume within the same external dimensions, thereby improving capacity without increasing overall size.
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 arrangement results in a more compact and efficient cyclonic separation apparatus that maintains effective dust and dirt collection capabilities while minimizing space usage, reducing the need for frequent filter replacements and enhancing the overall performance of hand-holdable vacuum cleaners.
Implementation Method 1
a cyclonic separation apparatus located in a path of the air flow generated by the fan
Implementation Method 2
cyclonic separation apparatus...separating efficiency
Data Source
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AI summary
A motor, fan and cyclonic separation apparatus arrangement for a vacuum cleaner (2,602,702,802) comprising: a motor coupled to a fan for generating air flow; and a cyclonic separation apparatus located in a path of the air flow generated by the fan. The cyclonic separation apparatus comprises: a plurality of cyclones (84,284) each with an air inlet port (88,288) and an air outlet port (56,256); and a cooling air flow path (61a,61b) . The motor comprises a permanent magnet brushless motor, a switched reluctance motor or a flux switching motor. The fan has an outer diameter the same or less than the diameter of the motor. The plurality of cyclones, the motor and the fan are arranged in a circular array about a central axis (21,321) of the cyclonic separation apparatus. The arrangement comprises a baffle for directing air flow from the fan out of the circular array. The motor is located in the cooling air flow path.