Cyclone Assembly Outlet Positioning for Better Dirt Separation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Cyclonic separators in vacuum cleaners face inefficiencies in dirt collection due to the positioning of the separated material outlet, which affects the separation efficiency and ease of dirt collection.
Innovation Solution
Positioning the separated material outlet between 90 to 330 degrees, preferably 180 to 300 degrees, around the cyclone casing from the fluid inlet, with an inwardly directed transition member that extends between the sidewall and end wall, and placing the dirt outlet within this transition member, allowing for enhanced separation efficiency and improved dirt collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the separated material outlet is positioned at conventional locations in the cyclone separator, then the structure is simple, but the separation efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the angular position of the separated material outlet to a specific range (90-330 degrees from the fluid inlet, preferably 180-300 degrees, most preferably about 270 degrees). This angular parameter optimization enhances the separation efficiency by improving the flow dynamics and centrifugal force distribution within the cyclone chamber, allowing more effective separation of particulate matter from the fluid stream.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional consideration by positioning the separated material outlet on the cyclone casing at a specific angular distance from the fluid inlet, rather than at conventional locations. This spatial repositioning in the angular dimension around the cyclone casing creates optimized flow patterns that enhance separation efficiency while maintaining structural simplicity.
2Productivity
If the separated material outlet is positioned to maximize separation efficiency, then dirt collection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the angular position parameter of the separated material outlet (positioned 90-330 degrees from the fluid inlet, preferably 180-300 degrees, most preferably about 270 degrees) to maximize dirt collection efficiency. This parameter optimization enhances productivity by improving the ejection of separated particulate matter from the cyclone chamber while avoiding complex additional structures.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple outlets are provided in the cyclone separator, then dirt collection capacity is increased, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent determines that providing only one separated material outlet at the optimized angular position (90-330 degrees from the fluid inlet, preferably 180-300 degrees, most preferably about 270 degrees) is sufficient to achieve effective dirt collection. This single outlet configuration, positioned at the optimal angle, maintains adequate dirt collection capacity while avoiding the increased complexity that would result from multiple outlets.
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 configuration enhances the separation efficiency of the cyclone separator by optimizing the flow direction and positioning of the dirt outlet, leading to improved dirt collection and operational efficiency in vacuum cleaners.
Implementation Method 1
a cyclone separator having a cyclone chamber defined by a cyclone casing and having a fluid inlet at an upper end of the cyclone chamber and a fluid outlet at an upper end of the cyclone chamber
Implementation Method 2
As the fluid travels through the cyclone chamber, it will rotate and heavier material (e.g. particulate matter) will exit the cyclone chamber via the separated material outlet
Data Source
AI summary
A cyclone separator useable in a surface cleaning apparatus comprises a cyclone casing defining a cyclone chamber and having first and second opposed ends and a sidewall extending between the first and second ends. The first end is provided with a fluid inlet and the second end is provided with a dirt outlet. The dirt outlet provides a lateral outlet to a dirt collection chamber in communication with the cyclone chamber via the dirt outlet. The dirt outlet is positioned from about 90 to about 330° around the cyclone casing in a flow direction from the fluid inlet.