Method and vacuum cleaner assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vacuum cleaner assemblies with two motor-fan units, such as a stick-type and a handheld unit, lack effective coordination in their control systems, making handling and operation less efficient, especially during transitions between connected and disconnected states.
Innovation Solution
A method and control arrangement that coordinates the operation of both motor-fan units by running them simultaneously when the handheld unit is connected, detecting removal, and performing specific actions such as stopping or continuing the motor-fan units to ensure seamless operation and user convenience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two motor-fan units are provided in the vacuum cleaner assembly (first in body, second in hand unit), then the versatility and cleaning capability are improved, but the control complexity and coordination difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control functions for both motor-fan units are merged into a unified control system. The control arrangement detects the connection state between hand unit and body, and automatically coordinates the operation of both motor-fan units based on this state, eliminating the need for separate independent control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system continuously monitors the connection state between the hand unit and body through detection means. Based on this feedback information, the control arrangement automatically adjusts the operation mode of both motor-fan units, ensuring coordinated control without user intervention.
2Ease of operation
If the hand unit can be removed from the body for standalone use, then the ease of operation and versatility are improved, but the coordination during transition states becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is configured to detect the removal action in advance and automatically perform preliminary coordination actions. When the hand unit is removed, the control arrangement proactively adjusts the motor-fan units to appropriate operating states before the user completes the separation, ensuring smooth transition without operational disruptions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically adapts its operation based on the real-time connection state. The motor-fan units can operate in coordinated mode when connected and independent mode when separated, with automatic transition between these dynamic states based on user actions.
3Productivity
If both motor-fan units run simultaneously when connected, then the productivity and cleaning efficiency are improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The operating mode of the motor-fan units is dynamically adjusted based on the connection state. When the hand unit is connected to the body, both motor-fan units operate simultaneously at high productivity. When separated, the system automatically reduces energy consumption by operating only the necessary unit, eliminating waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system changes operational parameters (power state of motor-fan units) based on the connection configuration. The system transitions between different power consumption states: high power when both units operate together for maximum productivity, and reduced power when only one unit is needed, optimizing the energy-productivity ratio.
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
Facilitates coordinated operation of the vacuum cleaner assembly, allowing for smooth handling and efficient use of both units without manual intervention during connection and disconnection, enhancing user experience and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a motor-fan unit is arranged for producing an airflow through the vacuum cleaner
Implementation Method 2
a motor-fan unit is arranged for producing an airflow
Implementation Method 3
a main separation unit for separating dust and debris from the airflow
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The disclosure concerns a vacuum cleaner assembly (2) comprising a first vacuum cleaner (4), a second vacuum cleaner (6) removably connected to the first vacuum cleaner (4), and a control arrangement (44). The control arrangement (44) is configured to: - run both first and second motor-fan units (16, 24) while the second vacuum cleaner (6) is in a connected state with the first vacuum cleaner (4), - detect a removal of the second vacuum cleaner (6) from the first vacuum cleaner (4), and in response thereto - perform at least one action related to the first vacuum cleaner (4) and/or the second vacuum cleaner (6).