Modular Vacuum Adapter with Interchangeable Connector Modules
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Vacuum devices often have restricted connection options and compatibility issues when integrated into newer environments or supplemented with accessories, leading to the need for multiple adapters with specific orientations and connectors, which increases complexity and reduces flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A modular adapter system with a base element and interchangeable modules, allowing for flexible connection configurations and orientations of primary connectors, enabling the use of different modules with the same base element and supporting various vacuum devices and functional elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple application-specific adapters are provided for different vacuum devices and connectors, then compatibility with specific devices is improved, but device complexity and the number of required adapters increase
Solution Approach 1:
The base element is designed with a universal interconnector that can accept different connector types (D-Sub-15, HD-Sub-26, etc.) through interchangeable modules. This allows a single base element to serve multiple vacuum device types, eliminating the need for multiple application-specific adapters while maintaining broad compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is divided into a permanent base element and interchangeable modules. The base element contains the universal interconnector and common functionality, while separate modules provide device-specific connector interfaces. This segmentation allows users to assemble the appropriate adapter configuration by simply swapping modules rather than using entirely different adapters for each device type.
2Ease of operation
If adapters are optimized for specific applications with fixed connector orientations, then ease of operation for that application is improved, but adaptability to other applications and mounting orientations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter configuration is made dynamic through the interchangeable module system. Instead of fixed, application-specific orientations, users can dynamically adjust the adapter setup by attaching different modules with various connector orientations to match the required application or mounting position, thereby maintaining ease of operation across multiple applications.
3Productivity
If vacuum devices are optimized for certain properties such as size and manufacturing costs, then productivity and manufacturing efficiency are improved, but connection options and compatibility with newer environments are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The base element acts as an intermediary between the vacuum device and various functional elements or accessories. It provides a universal interface that mediates connections between devices optimized for specific properties and the broader ecosystem of accessories and communication interfaces, thereby enabling restricted devices to access expanded connection options without modifying the original device design.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
AI summary
The invention relates to an adapter for the electrical and/or information technology connection of a vacuum device with a functional element for the vacuum device, wherein the adapter comprises: a base element, a first and a second primary connector each for connection to one of the vacuum device and functional element, wherein the primary connectors are connected to each other, and a module separate from the base element, which has the first primary connector and is attached to the base element, wherein an intermediate connector is provided on the base element and on the module, which together form an intermediate connection via which the first primary connector is connected to the second primary connector.