Debris Collection Shield With Universal Vacuum Adaptor

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Solution Overview

Problem

The construction industry faces challenges in managing dust and debris generated during drywall cutting, particularly in overhead operations, due to the lack of a universal connector size for debris collection systems, requiring multiple shield versions to match different vacuum conduit diameters, complicating inventory and compatibility.

Innovation Solution

A debris collection system with a shield and adaptor that accommodates multiple connector configurations, allowing flexible engagement with first, second, and third connectors on conduits, enabling debris to be directed from the accumulation volume to external collection locations through a communication path, using a vacuum source to manage debris.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple shield versions are offered to accommodate different conduit connectors, then compatibility with various vacuum sources is improved, but device complexity and inventory management are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with various vacuum sourcesVSAvoidnumber of shield versions

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The shield structure is designed with a universal adaptor that can accommodate multiple connector types (first, second, and third connectors with different configurations). This single shield version can interface with various vacuum sources having different conduit diameters and connector styles, eliminating the need for multiple specialized shield versions while maintaining broad compatibility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

An adaptor component serves as an intermediary between the shield and various vacuum conduit connectors. The adaptor translates between different connector configurations, allowing a single shield design to work with multiple vacuum source types. This intermediary element resolves the compatibility issue without requiring multiple shield variants

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple shield versions are maintained for different connector configurations, then compatibility is improved, but inventory control and logistics are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with different conduit connectorsVSAvoidinventory management time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By designing the shield with a universal adaptor that accepts multiple connector types, the system eliminates the need to maintain multiple shield versions in inventory. This single universal shield can serve all vacuum source configurations, dramatically simplifying inventory control and reducing the time and resources required for inventory management

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If a single shield design is used, then device simplicity is improved, but compatibility with different connector configurations is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshield structure simplicityVSAvoidcompatibility with connector configurations

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The shield system is segmented into two functional components: a main shield body and a separate adaptor. The shield body maintains a simple, universal design, while the adaptor handles the complexity of accommodating different connector configurations. This segmentation allows the shield structure to remain simple while achieving broad compatibility through the interchangeable adaptor

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 system provides a universal debris collection solution that simplifies inventory management by accommodating various conduit diameters, ensuring compatibility and efficient debris removal without the need for multiple shield versions.

Implementation Method 1

A vacuum source is provided which generates a low-pressure region to cause movement of debris produced from cutting through the surface from the accumulation volume to a location externally of the shield

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPressure gradient: Pressure Gradient

Implementation Method 2

connectors on the shield and conduit—each having cylindrical surfaces that frictionally engage by being relatively moved into a telescoping relationship

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS20250108443A1System for collecting debris

Publication Date: 2025.04.03 KLEIN TOOLS INC

AI summary

A system for collecting debris produced during a cutting operation and having a shield to be placed against a surface so that the shield and surface cooperatively define an accumulation volume. The shield has at least one opening communicating from the accumulation volume to externally of the shield. First, second, and third different connectors are provided respectively on first, second, and third conduits, each with a passage. The first, second, and third connectors are releasably operatively engageable with the adaptor, one in place of the others, whereby a communication path is defined from the accumulation volume through the at least one shield opening and into the passage on one of the first, second, and third conduits on a selected one of the first, second, and third connectors that is releasably operatively engaged with the adaptor. The communication path is usable to direct debris produced from cutting from the collection volume to a location externally of the shield.