Cyclonic Vacuum Separator Screen Wiping for Debris Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum cleaners with cyclonic separators face issues with debris accumulation between the central shroud and bin, leading to inconvenient emptying and potential clogging, and complex shroud wiping mechanisms prone to mechanical failure.
Innovation Solution
A cyclonic separating apparatus with a movable second cyclonic separating unit and an annular elastomeric wipe secured to the first cyclonic separating unit, allowing for easy cleaning of the screen by moving the second unit relative to the first, which draws debris off the screen and prevents accidental operation of the vacuum.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a bin is provided with a base that can be opened to remove debris, then debris removal is enabled, but bundles of carpet fibres and hair can become trapped between the central shroud and the bin requiring manual removal or complete bin detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the wiping function from the bin base opening mechanism by providing a separate screen wiping mechanism. The wipe is secured to the shroud and automatically contacts the screen during bin removal, eliminating the need for complex integrated wiping mechanisms within the bin structure itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The screen wiping function is performed automatically during the bin removal process. As the user pulls the bin away from the cyclonic separator, the wipe automatically contacts and wipes the screen surface, eliminating the need for separate manual screen cleaning operations.
2Ease of manufacture
If shroud wiping mechanisms are provided to remove debris clinging to the shroud, then screen cleaning is achieved, but the mechanisms become complex and difficult to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a simple, replaceable wipe made of elastomeric material that can be easily manufactured and replaced. Rather than creating a complex mechanical wiping system, a simple elastomeric wipe is used that can be discarded or replaced when worn, significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of securing the wipe to the bin or creating a complex actuated wiping mechanism, the invention secures the wipe to the stationary shroud. The relative motion between the moving bin and stationary shroud during normal operation automatically performs the wiping action, inverting the traditional approach where the wiping element would be on the moving component.
3Reliability
If large debris remains in the bin and is not completely emptied, then debris can be trapped between the dirt collector and bin base, but air and large debris can be drawn directly into the flow downstream risking clogging and motor damage
Solution Approach 1:
The screen wiping action occurs automatically during bin removal, before the bin is completely emptied or reattached. This preliminary cleaning of the screen prevents debris from being drawn into the motor during subsequent operation, ensuring motor protection is established before the vacuum cleaner is put back into service.
Solution Approach 2:
The design provides visual and tactile feedback to the user during bin removal. As the bin is pulled away, the wipe contacts the screen and the user can observe the wiping action, providing confirmation that the screen is being cleaned. This feedback mechanism ensures the protective function is activated whenever the bin is removed.
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
The solution simplifies the cleaning process, reduces mechanical complexity, and prevents debris from being drawn into the motor, ensuring efficient separation and preventing damage to the vacuum cleaner.
Implementation Method 1
a first cyclonic separating unit comprising a first cyclonic separator having a separator axis, a second cyclonic separating unit comprising a second cyclonic separator
Implementation Method 2
cyclonic separator comprising a bin for collecting dirt separated by the first cyclonic separating unit
Data Source
AI summary
A separating apparatus including a first cyclonic separating unit that includes a first cyclonic separator having a separator axis, a second cyclonic separating unit that includes a second cyclonic separator, the second cyclonic separating unit being movable between a first position and a second position with respect to the first separating unit in a direction which is parallel with the separator axis, a screen disposed within the first cyclonic separator such that it extends parallel with the separator axis. The screen is connected to the second cyclonic separating unit for movement with the second cyclonic separating unit. The separating apparatus includes a wipe for cleaning the screen, wherein the wipe is secured to the first cyclonic separating unit such that movement of the second cyclonic separating unit from the first position to the second position moves the screen relative to the wipe thereby cleaning debris from the screen.