Dual Spring Vacuum Device with Segmented Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum generation devices face challenges in efficiently generating vacuum by requiring high initial force during the priming phase and struggling to return to the original volume due to resistance forces, limiting the vacuum level that can be achieved.
Innovation Solution
A vacuum generation device with a chamber that utilizes a dual spring system, where the first spring has a higher stiffness than the second spring, and a locking arrangement to separate their loading phases, allowing for a higher force application in the first phase and easier reduction in volume, and a one-way vent for air expulsion, facilitating efficient vacuum generation by returning to the original volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a single spring system is used in the chamber, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot provide sufficient force during priming and struggles to return to original volume
Solution Approach 1:
The single spring system is segmented into two separate springs: a first spring for the priming phase and a second spring for the return phase. This segmentation allows each spring to be optimized for its specific function, with the first spring providing high stiffness for effective priming and the second spring providing appropriate resistance for controlled return, thereby resolving the contradiction between force application and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring system transitions from a static single-spring configuration to a dynamic two-spring configuration where different springs are engaged at different phases of operation. The locking arrangement enables dynamic switching between springs, allowing the system to adapt its mechanical properties (stiffness) to the operational requirements of each phase, thus achieving both high priming force and manageable return resistance.
2Productivity
If high force is applied during the first phase of priming, then effective vacuum generation is achieved, but the chamber struggles to return to original volume due to resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The priming process is segmented into two phases with different force requirements, and the spring system is correspondingly segmented. The first spring handles the high-force first phase to ensure effective vacuum generation, while the second spring manages the return phase with appropriate resistance, thus resolving the contradiction between productivity and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical parameter (stiffness) of the spring system is changed between phases by switching between two springs with different stiffness values. The first spring has higher stiffness for effective priming, while the second spring has lower stiffness to facilitate easier return, thereby resolving the contradiction between vacuum generation efficiency and chamber return ease.
3Ease of operation
If a flexible dome is used in the chamber, then the chamber can return to non-compressed state, but it requires high initial force during priming
Solution Approach 1:
The return mechanism is segmented from the priming mechanism by using separate springs for each function. The second spring is specifically designed to assist the flexible dome in returning to its non-compressed state with reduced force requirements, while the first spring handles the high-force priming operation, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and force requirement.
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 approach allows for effective vacuum generation by managing force application and resistance, enabling higher vacuum levels and efficient air expulsion, thus overcoming the limitations of traditional devices.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring and a second spring, wherein a stiffness of the first spring is higher than a stiffness of the second spring
Implementation Method 2
a one-way vent, where air exits the chamber through the one-way vent as the active volume is decreased
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure generally relates to vacuum generation devices.