Reconfigurable Electric Air Pump for Handheld Inflation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electric inflators have inconvenient shapes that make them difficult to hold during operation.
Innovation Solution
An electric air pump design with a power unit and inflating unit that can be configured in multiple positions, allowing for a compact linear shape for storage and portability, a handgun-like shape for easy handling, and complete separation for maintenance, featuring engaging protrusions and through-holes for alignment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the electric inflator has a substantially cylindrical or square appearance, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it is inconvenient to hold during the inflation process
Solution Approach 1:
The electric air pump is divided into two separable units: a power unit containing the motor and battery, and an inflating unit containing the piston and cylinder. This segmentation allows the device to be reconfigured into different shapes and positions, improving ease of holding while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through modular assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic reconfigurability by allowing the power unit to connect to the inflating unit at multiple positions (first, second, or third position) and enabling detachment between the motor and eccentric cam member. This dynamic adjustment capability lets the device adapt its configuration for optimal handling during operation while maintaining a compact form factor
2Ease of repair
If the power unit and inflating unit are completely separated, then maintenance is easier, but the device cannot be used as a single integrated unit
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into detachable power unit and inflating unit, each with independent functional components. This segmentation enables separate maintenance and repair of individual units while preserving the ability to reassemble them into a functional integrated system through the engaging portions and slots
Solution Approach 2:
The engaging portions with multiple slots and protrusions provide universal connectivity, allowing the power unit to attach to the inflating unit at different positions for various functions (integrated operation, handheld mode, or complete separation for maintenance). This multi-functional connection system maintains versatility while enabling easy maintenance
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 convenient handling during inflation, enhances storage and portability, and allows for easy maintenance by enabling position adjustments and separation of components.
Implementation Method 1
an eccentric cam member (22) detachably connected to the motor (14)
Data Source
AI summary
An electric air pump includes a power unit and an inflating unit. The power unit includes a first housing and a motor. The inflating unit includes a second housing and an eccentric cam member. The power unit is configured to connect to the inflating unit in either a first position or a second position. When the power unit is in the first position, the motor is detached from the eccentric cam member. When the power unit is in the second position, the motor is connected to the eccentric cam member. When the power unit is in the third position, the power unit and the inflating unit are completely separated from each other.