Dehumidifier Pump Activation Assembly for Automatic Drainage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dehumidifiers require manual removal of a water container, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive, and modifying molds to include a water hose for automatic drainage is costly and not economically viable.
Innovation Solution
An activation assembly with a cover, recoil mechanism, clamping element, urging sleeve, cap, and connector that automatically activates the dehumidifier and pump for simultaneous water drainage, using a wedged extension to engage with the switch device and direct water out of the dehumidifier.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual removal of water container is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases due to time-consuming manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The activation assembly merges the cover closure function with the pump activation function into a single integrated mechanism. When the cover is closed, the connector automatically engages with the clamping element to activate the pump, combining two separate operations (closing cover and starting drainage) into one simultaneous action.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-activation through the mechanical connection between the connector and clamping element. The act of closing the cover automatically triggers the pump activation without requiring manual intervention or separate control actions, making the system serve itself.
2Ease of operation
If water hose connection is added for automatic drainage, then ease of operation improves, but manufacturing cost increases due to new mold development
Solution Approach 1:
The connector serves multiple functions: it acts as both the cover closure component and the pump activation trigger. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate activation mechanisms and avoids the need for specialized mold development, as the same structural elements serve dual purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping element acts as an intermediary mechanical mediator between the connector and the pump activation switch. It translates the mechanical action of closing the cover into the appropriate signal or mechanical engagement to activate the pump, providing a simple interface that avoids complex wiring or specialized components.
3Extent of automation
If activation assembly components are added, then automation level increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The activation assembly is segmented into distinct functional components (cover, connector, clamping element, pump) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This modular segmentation allows for easier manufacturing and assembly while achieving automatic activation functionality.
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
Enables efficient and automatic activation of the dehumidifier and water drainage without the need for manual intervention, reducing operational time and costs associated with mold modifications.
Implementation Method 1
a recoil mechanism (2) partially extending through the cover (1) and having therein a recoil spring (21)
Data Source
AI summary
An activation assembly for activating a pump inside a dehumidifier includes a cover (1) adapted to connect to the dehumidifier and having therein a switch device (11) adapted to electrically connect to the pump. A recoil mechanism (2) is partially extended through the cover (1) and has therein a path (20) to receive a recoil spring (21) compressibly received inside the path (20) and a push (22) movably received inside the path (20) and securely located on top of the recoil spring (21). A clamping element (3) is mounted on top of the recoil mechanism (2). A connector (6) has a tube (61) selectively secured by the clamping element (3) and extending into the recoil mechanism (2). A connector (6) has an extension (62) formed with the tube (61) to contact with the switch device (11) when the tube (61) is extended into the recoil mechanism (2) to complete the communication between the interior of the tube and the path (20) such that the pump is activated by the switch device (11) by the contact of the extension (62) and water is drained by operation of the pump through the path (20) and the interior of the connector (6).