Modular Air Cleaner Power Switching for Flexible Room Coverage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional air cleaners struggle to effectively purify both narrow and large indoor spaces simultaneously, as they either occupy excessive space when multiple small units are used or fail to efficiently clean both areas with a single large unit.
Innovation Solution
A modular air cleaner system where multiple units can be coupled or operated independently, with a power adapter and switch configuration that prevents double powering, allowing for flexible deployment and efficient air purification across varying space sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple small air cleaners are used in a large indoor space, then the air purification capacity is improved, but the floor area occupied increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple small air cleaner units into a single integrated modular system. The first and second air cleaners can be coupled together through connection parts to form a combined unit that provides the air purification capacity of multiple devices while occupying less floor space than separate units would require
Solution Approach 2:
The modular air cleaner system is designed to be universally adaptable - it can operate as individual units or combine into larger configurations. The power adapter enables the system to function in multiple power supply modes (single unit or combined units), making the same hardware serve different operational needs without requiring separate devices
2Productivity
If a large-capacity air cleaner is provided, then the air purification capacity for large spaces is improved, but it cannot efficiently purify narrow indoor spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The air cleaner system is segmented into modular units that can be used independently or combined. The first and second air cleaners are separate functional units that can operate autonomously in narrow spaces or be coupled together for large space coverage, allowing the system to adapt to different spatial requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts its configuration based on operational needs. Users can couple or decouple the air cleaner units and configure the power supply system accordingly - operating as single units for narrow spaces or combined units for large spaces, making the system flexible and adaptable rather than fixed
3Adaptability or versatility
If a modular air cleaner system with multiple power supply inputs is designed, then the versatility and ease of operation are improved, but the risk of double powering and safety hazards increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power adapter serves as an intermediary device that mediates between the first and second power supply inputs. It physically connects to the second air cleaner and interfaces with the switch, controlling the electrical connection between the second input terminal and the power adapter. This intermediary mechanism ensures that when the first power supply is active, the second power supply cannot simultaneously power the system, preventing double powering hazards while maintaining flexible power supply options
Data Source
AI summary
An air cleaner includes a first air cleaner having an output part, a second air cleaner configured to be electrically connectable to the first air cleaner, a power adapter detachably provided to supply power to the second air cleaner, a first input terminal provided in the second air cleaner and configured to be electrically connected to the output part, a second input terminal provided in the second air cleaner and configured to be electrically connected to the power adapter; and a switch configured to electrically connect the first input terminal to the output part or to electrically connect the second input terminal to the power adapter.