Power tool including an air filter and debris collector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power tools lack an efficient and convenient method for collecting and storing debris generated during operation, as traditional filters and vacuums often fail to effectively separate debris from fluid flows, leading to incomplete cleaning and potential exposure to users during filter replacement.
Innovation Solution
A power tool design incorporating a filter with a collapsible and expandable filter media that automatically moves between a collapsed position for storage and an expanded position for use, featuring a valve to control fluid flow and debris collection, ensuring effective separation and containment of debris within a collection container.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a traditional filter is used to separate debris from fluid flow, then debris separation is achieved, but the filter media is not collapsible requiring separate storage space and increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The filter media is collapsed into a compact form that nests within the housing of the filter device during storage, eliminating the need for separate storage space. The collapsible media can be compressed into a small volume and contained within the same housing structure that holds the collection container.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter media transitions from a static, fixed structure to a dynamic, collapsible structure that can change its volume. The media is designed to expand when in use and collapse when not in use, allowing it to adapt its form factor to fit within the housing during storage while maintaining filtering capability during operation.
2Ease of operation
If the filter is removed from the housing for replacement, then filter maintenance is enabled, but debris may escape and expose users to harmful particles
Solution Approach 1:
A valve mechanism is incorporated into the filter housing that automatically closes when the filter is removed, preventing debris from escaping through the discharge outlet. This preliminary protective action is triggered by the filter removal itself, ensuring that the harmful factor (debris exposure) is counteracted before the user can be affected.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve acts as an intermediary component between the filter and the external environment. It mediates the potential harmful effect by controlling the flow path, closing automatically when the filter is removed to block debris escape, and opening when the filter is properly installed to allow fluid flow.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the filter media is fixed in place, then structural stability is maintained, but the filter cannot be collapsed for compact storage
Solution Approach 1:
The filter media is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to transition between a stable, expanded configuration during operation and a collapsed, compact configuration during storage. The media maintains structural integrity when expanded to ensure stable filtering performance while being capable of collapsing to reduce storage volume.
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 solution provides a reliable and user-friendly method for capturing and storing debris, minimizing exposure risks during filter replacement and ensuring efficient operation by maintaining clean airflow, thus enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a filter media configured to separate the debris from the flow of fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A power tool includes a power tool housing including a fluid inlet and a discharge outlet. A motor is supported by the power tool housing. A tool is configured to be moved relative to the housing by the motor. A fan is configured to be rotated by the motor, such that a fluid flow with debris generated by movement of the tool is drawn into the fluid inlet and through the discharge outlet. A filter is removably attached to the power tool housing. The filter includes a filter media configured to separate the debris from the flow of fluid. The filter media includes a collection container configured to store the debris. The filter also includes an opening in the filter media through which the flow of fluid with the debris enters the collection container, and a valve that is moveable between a closed position and an open position.