Removable Cleaning Element Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum cleaner suction heads with removable cleaning elements can be difficult for users to remove due to complex locking mechanisms, which may lead to frustration and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning head design featuring an elastically deformable locking member with a movable control part that transitions from an inactive to an active position, allowing easy and ergonomic removal of the cleaning element by deforming the connecting part to release the locking mechanism, reducing the number of moving parts and simplifying the design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is used to prevent unintentional removal of the cleaning element, then the cleaning element is securely locked in the receiving housing, but the removal process becomes complex and difficult for users
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed to be movable between a locked position (where it engages the locking element) and an unlocked position (where it releases the locking element). This dynamic positioning allows the same component to provide secure locking during operation while enabling easy removal when needed, resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member utilizes elastic deformation as a parameter change mechanism. When force is applied to the control portion, the linking portion elastically deforms to transition the locking portion between engaged and disengaged states. This elastic parameter change enables simple user operation while maintaining secure locking, addressing both reliability and ease of operation requirements.
2Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism is used to ensure secure locking, then the cleaning element cannot be accidentally removed, but the number of moving parts increases and the design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism merges multiple functions into a single integrated locking member. This single component combines the locking portion (which engages the locking element), the linking portion (which transmits force), and the control portion (which the user operates). By merging these functions into one component rather than using separate parts for each function, the design achieves reliable locking while minimizing the number of moving parts and simplifying the overall structure.
3Device complexity
If the locking mechanism is simplified with fewer moving parts, then the design becomes more reliable and easier to manufacture, but the locking mechanism may not provide sufficient security against unintentional removal
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is segmented into distinct functional portions: a locking portion for engaging the locking element, a linking portion for transmitting force, and a control portion for user operation. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while remaining part of an integrated single-component structure. The locking portion provides secure engagement, the linking portion efficiently transmits user force, and the control portion enables easy operation, achieving both simplicity and reliability.
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
This configuration ensures easy and reliable removal of the cleaning element, simplifies the locking mechanism, and extends the lifespan of the locking parts by distributing deformation progressively, making the process more user-friendly and reliable.
Implementation Method 1
a movement of the control part from the inactive position to the active position elastically deforms at least the linking part in such a way as to cause a movement of the locking part from the locking position to the release position
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The cleaning head (2) comprises a main body; a cleaning element (11) mounted removably in a receiving housing (9) of the main body;a locking member comprising a locking portion (25) movable between a locking position in which the locking portion (25) cooperates with a locking element provided on the cleaning element (11) so as to prevent removal of the cleaning element (11) from the receiving housing and a release position in which the locking portion (25) releases the locking element so as to permit removal of the cleaning element (11), and a control portion movable between an inactive position and an active position, the locking member being configured such that a movement of the control portion from the inactive position to the active position results in a movement of the locking portion (25) from the locking position to the release position.;