Downward Vapor Extraction Filter Replacement Through Inflow Opening

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vapor extraction devices require complex and time-consuming filter replacement processes, which disrupt the appearance and functionality of the device, especially since additional removal openings weaken the hob and complicate maintenance.

Innovation Solution

The design allows for reversible filter removal through the inflow opening, eliminating the need for additional removal openings on the hob and incorporating a filter replacement space with a transport channel for efficient and tool-free filter exchange, ensuring a tidy appearance and efficient operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of repair

If a removal opening is introduced in the hotplate for filter maintenance, then the filter can be accessed for replacement, but the hotplate surface is no longer available for heating and the appearance is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter replacement accessibilityVSAvoidhotplate surface area
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the filter removal function from the hotplate surface by routing the filter replacement path through the existing inflow opening. The filter can be removed from the filter seat through the inflow opening without creating any opening in the hotplate surface, thus preserving the hotplate area while maintaining filter accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The inflow opening serves multiple functions: it allows cooking vapors to enter the extraction device during operation and also serves as the access path for filter removal and installation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate removal opening in the hotplate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of repair

If additional removal openings are created on the hob, then filter maintenance becomes possible, but the hob structure is weakened and additional sealing devices are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter maintenance capabilityVSAvoidhob structural strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the filter maintenance function from the hob structure by utilizing the existing inflow opening pathway. No additional openings are created in the hob, thus preserving its structural integrity while enabling filter removal through the vapor extraction pathway.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The inflow opening structure serves dual purposes: facilitating vapor intake during cooking and providing the access corridor for filter maintenance. This eliminates the need for separate maintenance openings and their associated sealing requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Loss of time

If the filter replacement process is made simple and quick, then maintenance time is reduced, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter replacement timeVSAvoidfilter replacement mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The filter replacement mechanism utilizes the existing vapor flow and pressure differential in the extraction device to assist in filter installation and removal. The system's operational characteristics are leveraged to simplify the maintenance process without adding complex mechanical actuation systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of creating a complex mechanism to push the filter out, the invention allows the filter to be accessed by reversing the normal vapor flow path temporarily - the filter is removed through the inflow opening by accessing it from the extraction device side rather than from the hotplate side.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

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 solution simplifies filter replacement, maintains the hob's surface for cooking, reduces structural weakening, and enhances the device's efficiency by allowing for easy and regular filter maintenance without compromising the extraction capacity.

Implementation Method 1

By operating the extractor device, a pressure difference is created between an upstream side and a downstream side. The filter is arranged in a flow channel of the extractor device such that the filter is pressed by the pressure difference against a filter seat.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure difference: Pressure Gradient

Implementation Method 2

The vapor extraction device comprises a fan for sucking in the cooking vapors

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuction: Suction

Data Source

PatentEP3505830B1Vapour extraction device for removing cooking vapours downwards
Publication Date: 2021.03.24 BRUCKBAUER WILHELM
  • EP3505830B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3505830B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3505830B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a ventilation device (2) for extracting cooking fumes downwards. The ventilation device (2) comprises at least one fan (14) for drawing in the cooking fumes, an inlet opening (11) for the cooking fumes entering the ventilation device (2), a filter seat (19) arranged downstream of the at least one fan (14), on which at least one filter (20) for filtering the cooking fumes can be arranged, and a filter change chamber (21) extending between the inlet opening (11) and the at least one filter seat (19), wherein the filter change chamber (21) is designed for the reversible removal of the at least one filter (20) from the filter seat (19) through the inlet opening (11).