Flexible Slim Vacuum Nozzle With Dust-Protected Power Generation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vacuum cleaner nozzles face issues with obstruction by dust and debris, restricted movement, inability to reach narrow spaces, and ergonomic discomfort, leading to inefficiencies and potential injuries.

Innovation Solution

A nozzle design with a slim, flexible head and integrated power generation device that allows for multi-directional movement, includes a plate to prevent dust obstruction, and is releasably connected to the suction source, featuring a flexible joint and conduit for enhanced ergonomics and illumination.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the nozzle uses a standard joint allowing only circular movement, then the joint structure is simple and reliable, but the operator experiences ergonomic discomfort and fatigue when cleaning narrow spaces

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperator comfortVSAvoidjoint structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the rigid, fixed-rotation joint into a flexible, multi-directional joint. The flexible joint allows the nozzle to move not only in circular motion but also in multiple directions including up, down, left, and right, adapting to the operator's needs when cleaning narrow spaces. This dynamic flexibility resolves the contradiction by improving ease of operation while accepting increased structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of repair

If the fan is enclosed in an inaccessible housing, then the fan is protected from dust and debris, but the operator cannot remove obstructions without tools and technical knowledge

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefan accessibilityVSAvoidfan protection

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of repairVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the fan housing into accessible and protected zones. The fan housing includes an opening that allows the operator to access and remove obstructions from the fan, while the fan remains partially enclosed to maintain protection. This segmented design resolves the contradiction by improving ease of repair while maintaining sufficient reliability through selective protection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If the nozzle head is high, then the power generation device is protected from dust obstruction, but the nozzle cannot reach areas in narrow spaces

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower generation protectionVSAvoidnozzle head height

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dimensionality change by repositioning the power generation device from a vertical orientation (protected by height) to a horizontal orientation on the side of the nozzle tube. This allows the nozzle head to remain low and access narrow spaces while the power generation device is protected from dust obstruction through its lateral placement and the side opening configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

4Productivity

If dust enters the power generation device, then the suction inlet is effectively collecting all particles, but the power generation device becomes obstructed and fails

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesuction efficiencyVSAvoidpower generation continuity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the extraction principle by separating the dust collection path from the power generation device. The side opening is positioned and configured to exclude dust and debris from entering the power generation device, while the suction inlet continues to collect all particles effectively. This extraction of the harmful element (dust) from the power generation path resolves the contradiction by maintaining productivity while ensuring reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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 nozzle effectively prevents dust obstruction, allows for efficient cleaning in tight spaces, reduces operator fatigue, and minimizes the risk of repetitive strain injuries by providing a flexible and ergonomic cleaning experience.

Implementation Method 1

The fan (2) is connected, through a timing belt (7) to a synchronous motor or a dynamo (8), that rotating, creates electric current at a certain voltage.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The UVC germicide lamps gives out a light with a wave length of 253,70 nm and is named 'germicide' for its capability to neutralize bacteria.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectUltraviolet radiation: Radiation

Implementation Method 3

a flexible joint connected both to the nozzle head and the lower opening of the nozzle tube, wherein the flexible joint is configured to provide a freedom of movement

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3367864B1Electricity producing flexible and slim nozzle for being releasably connected to a suction source of a vacuum cleaner

Publication Date: 2024.08.14 APIROS AB

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AI summary

The present invention relates to a nozzle suitable for being releasably connected to a suction source of a vacuum cleaner. The nozzle comprises a nozzle tube, a slim nozzle head, a flexible joint configured to pro- vide a freedom of movement, a flexible conduit, a light source, and a power generation device.