Downdraft Extractor Filter Access Through the Inflow Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extractor fan apparatuses have cumbersome and complicated filter removal processes, which obstruct the cooking surface and require additional sealing, compromising the appearance and functionality of the device.
Innovation Solution
The extractor fan apparatus features a filter replacement space that allows for reversible filter removal through the inflow opening, eliminating the need for additional removal openings on the hob surface and incorporating a guide device and transport channel for easy filter displacement, ensuring a tidy appearance and efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a removal opening is introduced in the hob for filter maintenance, then the filter becomes accessible for removal, but the hob surface is compromised and requires additional sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the filter removal function from the traditional lower removal opening location and relocates it to the inflow opening area. The filter replacement space is configured to allow filter removal through the inflow opening, eliminating the need for separate removal openings in the hob surface. This maintains hob surface integrity while providing filter accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The inflow opening serves multiple functions: it allows cooking vapours to enter the extractor fan apparatus during operation, and it also serves as the access point for filter removal during maintenance. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate openings, maintaining hob surface integrity while providing filter accessibility.
2Ease of operation
If additional removal openings are introduced on the hob surface, then filter maintenance is enabled, but the appearance and tidiness of the extractor fan apparatus is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The inflow opening is utilized for dual purposes: allowing cooking vapour entry during operation and providing access for filter removal during maintenance. This eliminates the need for additional openings that would compromise the aesthetic appearance of the hob surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter removal function is extracted from traditional lower opening locations and repositioned to utilize the inflow opening area, eliminating visible disruptions to the hob surface appearance while maintaining filter accessibility for maintenance.
3Device complexity
If the filter replacement space is configured within the flow channel, then additional structures are eliminated, but the flow resistance may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The filter replacement space is configured with specific local characteristics - it is arranged downstream of the fan where the cooking vapour flow has already been generated. The inner free cross section is designed to be greater than the filter cross section at every location, minimizing flow resistance while maintaining structural simplicity.
4Ease of operation
If the inner free cross section of the filter replacement space is greater than the filter cross section, then the filter can be easily removed, but the space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter replacement space is configured in the axial direction downstream of the fan, utilizing the available space in this dimension. By arranging the space downstream where volume is naturally available after the fan assembly, the invention provides adequate clearance for filter removal without significantly increasing the overall compact dimensions of the extractor fan apparatus.
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 design simplifies filter replacement, maintains a clean cooking surface, and enhances the extractor fan's efficiency by reducing flow resistance and allowing for regular maintenance without structural weakening of the hob.
Implementation Method 1
a fan for aspirating the cooking vapours
Implementation Method 2
at least one filter for filtering the cooking vapours
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an extractor fan apparatus for extracting cooking vapours downwards. The extractor fan apparatus comprises at least one fan for aspirating the cooking vapours, an inflow opening for the entry of the cooking vapours into the extractor fan apparatus, a filter seat which is arranged downstream of the at least one fan and on which at least one filter for filtering the cooking vapours can be arranged, and a filter replacement space which extends between the inflow opening and the at least one filter seat, the filter replacement space being configured for the reversible removal of the at least one filter from the filter seat through the inflow opening.