Cyclone Separator Layout for Compact Vacuum Dust Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vacuum cleaners with cyclonic separating apparatus face a trade-off between increasing separation efficiency and maintaining a compact size, as adding more cyclones in parallel enhances separation but can increase the external diameter and block airflow if cyclones are too small.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a second cyclonic separating unit with cyclones arranged in multiple sets at different angles and positions, allowing for a compact arrangement while maximizing the number of cyclones, with each set overlapping to reduce the overall height and volume of the apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the number of parallel cyclones in the second cyclonic separating unit is increased to improve separation efficiency, then the separation efficiency increases, but the external diameter of the separating apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional planar arrangement of cyclones to a three-dimensional spatial configuration by arranging cyclones at different angles (first angle and second angle) relative to the longitudinal axis, with first set cyclones located above second set cyclones. This vertical stacking and angular distribution allows more cyclones to be packed within a compact external diameter while maintaining separation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where the first set of second cyclones extends about and is located at least partially above the second set of second cyclones. This nesting configuration allows cyclones to be arranged in overlapping vertical layers, maximizing the number of cyclones within the available spatial envelope without proportionally increasing the external diameter.
2Area of stationary object
If the size of individual cyclones is reduced to decrease the overall size of the separating apparatus, then the external diameter decreases, but the cyclones can become blocked and airflow rate decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different local qualities by arranging cyclones at different angles and positions rather than using a uniform arrangement. The first set of cyclones is arranged at a first angle and located above the second set, which is arranged at a second angle. This differentiated spatial distribution optimizes airflow patterns for each cyclone, reducing the likelihood of blockage while maintaining compact dimensions.
3Manufacturing precision
If cyclones are arranged in a ring configuration to improve separation efficiency, then the separation efficiency increases, but the height of the separating apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent redistributes cyclones from a purely horizontal ring arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration by introducing vertical positioning. The first set of cyclones is located at least partially above the second set, and both sets are arranged at different angles to the longitudinal axis. This transforms the arrangement into a conical or stepped three-dimensional structure, reducing the height required compared to a flat ring configuration while maintaining the number of cyclones for separation efficiency.
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 separation efficiency without significantly increasing the size of the vacuum cleaner, allowing for effective airflow and reduced blockage risks, enabling direct fluid flow to the fan unit without a filter assembly.
Implementation Method 1
This is due to an increase in the centrifugal forces generated within the cyclones which cause dust particles to be thrown from the air flow
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(a)
Figure 2(b)
AI summary
A surface treating appliance includes a first cyclonic separating unit including at least one first cyclone, and a second cyclonic separating unit located downstream from the first cyclonic separating unit and including a plurality of second cyclones arranged in parallel. The plurality of second cyclones is divided into at least a first set of second cyclones arranged about an axis, and a second set of second cyclones, the first set of second cyclones extending about the second set of second cyclones. Each second cyclone has a longitudinal axis, with the longitudinal axes of the first set of second cyclones being arranged at a first angle to said axis, and the longitudinal axes of the second set of second cyclones being arranged at a second angle to said axis, and wherein the first angle is greater than the second angle.