Modular Vacuum Cleaner Switching Between Cordless and Corded Modes

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vacuum cleaners are limited by the need for separate cordless and corded models, which occupy space and increase costs, while offering limited user convenience due to different usage scenarios.

Innovation Solution

A modular cleaning apparatus that can switch between wireless and wired modes, featuring a cleaner module with interchangeable suction motors and a dust collector, allowing users to select between wireless and wired cleaning modes based on power source and usage needs, with a mounting station for storage and charging.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If both cordless and corded vacuum cleaners are purchased to cover different usage scenarios, then user convenience is improved, but indoor space is limited and cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecleaning mode versatilityVSAvoidstorage space

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The vacuum cleaner is designed with a universal base unit that can accept both wireless cleaning modules and wired cleaning modules through a standardized mounting interface. This allows a single device to perform both cordless and corded cleaning functions, eliminating the need for separate vacuum cleaners for different usage scenarios.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The vacuum cleaner is divided into a base unit and interchangeable cleaning modules. The wireless cleaning module includes a battery and motor integrated in a handheld unit, while the wired cleaning module separates the motor into a canister with a connection hose. This segmentation allows flexible configuration and compact storage of different cleaning modes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If both cordless and corded vacuum cleaners are purchased to cover different usage scenarios, then user convenience is improved, but cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecleaning mode versatilityVSAvoidnumber of devices

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The vacuum cleaner is designed with a universal base unit that can accept both wireless cleaning modules and wired cleaning modules through a standardized mounting interface. This allows a single device to perform both cordless and corded cleaning functions, eliminating the need for separate vacuum cleaners for different usage scenarios.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a modular design with interchangeable modules is implemented, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecleaning mode convertibilityVSAvoidmodule interchangeability structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The vacuum cleaner is divided into a base unit and interchangeable cleaning modules. The wireless cleaning module includes a battery and motor integrated in a handheld unit, while the wired cleaning module separates the motor into a canister with a connection hose. This segmentation allows flexible configuration and compact storage of different cleaning modes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base unit integrates common components including the suction path, dust collector, and control circuits. The mounting portion combines electrical connections, mechanical attachment, and communication interfaces in a single standardized structure, reducing overall system complexity despite the modular design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 modular design allows for flexible conversion of the cleaner to suit different purposes, minimizing storage space, improving aesthetics, and enhancing user convenience by enabling seamless transitions between cleaning modes.

Implementation Method 1

first and second suction motors configured to generate a suction force

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSuction: Suction

Data Source

PatentUS11006801B2Cleaning apparatus

Publication Date: 2021.05.18 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A cleaning apparatus comprises a cleaner module provided with a module mounting portion, a wireless cleaning module removably mounted to the cleaner module, and a wired cleaning module provided with a canister, a connection hose connected from the canister to the cleaner, and a connector provided in the connection hose to be removably mounted to the cleaner module. A wired cleaning mode using the wired cleaning module and a wireless cleaning mode using the wireless cleaning module are selectively operated by mounting one of the connector of the wired cleaning module and the wireless cleaning module, to the module mounting portion.