Hand Vacuum Cyclone Outlet Geometry for Better Dirt Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cyclonic surface cleaning apparatuses face inefficiencies in dirt collection due to the design of cyclones and dirt collection chambers, which can lead to suboptimal separation of dirt from air and collection of dirt in cyclones.
Innovation Solution
A cyclone with an open end and a plate positioned to create a gap of non-uniform length between the plate and the open end, where the plate has a sidewall extending part way around it, enhancing the dirt collection process by varying the sidewall length and perimeter coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a uniform gap is provided between the plate and the open end of the cyclone, then the structure is simple to manufacture, but the dirt collection efficiency is suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing a plate with variable gap length - the gap between the plate and cyclone open end varies in length around the perimeter. Specifically, the gap has a first length in a first region and a second length in a second region, with the second length being greater than the first length. This non-uniform gap configuration optimizes dirt collection efficiency in different regions while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through a single plate structure.
2Productivity
If the dirt outlet size is increased to improve dirt collection, then more dirt can be collected, but the separation of dirt from air becomes suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The variable gap length in different regions of the plate allows different portions of the dirt outlet to have different sizes. Regions with larger gaps facilitate greater dirt collection volume, while regions with smaller gaps maintain better dirt-air separation quality. This spatial variation in gap dimensions resolves the contradiction between collection volume and separation quality.
3Productivity
If the cyclone chamber is divided into upper and lower chambers with a disc or divider, then the dirt collection chamber can be formed, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plate serves multiple functions: it defines the variable gap dirt outlet, acts as a structural support element, and helps organize the dirt collection chamber. By making the plate multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for additional dividing structures like discs or separators, thereby maintaining dirt collection capability while reducing overall device complexity.
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 improves the dirt collection efficiency by creating a variable gap that optimizes dirt outlet size and collection, allowing for better separation of dirt from air and improved cyclone performance in surface cleaning apparatuses.
Implementation Method 1
Cyclonic surface cleaning apparatuses face inefficiencies in dirt collection due to the design of cyclones and dirt collection chambers
Implementation Method 2
Cyclonic surface cleaning apparatuses face inefficiencies in dirt collection due to the design of cyclones and dirt collection chambers
Data Source
AI summary
A dual cyclonic stage hand vacuum cleaner has a handle provided on a side of the hand vacuum cleaner.