Robotic dust collector

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Solution Overview

Problem

Robotic dust collectors with elastic members in the hinge part often result in a larger hinge size, which complicates assembly and reduces efficiency during the coupling of covers.

Innovation Solution

A robotic dust collector design featuring a cover plate with a first hinge member and an elastic member in an insertion space, supported by a second hinge member with a shaft and fixture part, allowing the first hinge member to rotate and preventing the elastic member from protruding, thus maintaining a compact size and improving assembly efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If an elastic member is disposed in the hinge part, then the hinge part provides elasticity for opening the cover, but the hinge part becomes large in size

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveelasticityVSAvoidhinge part size
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic member is disposed inside the insertion space formed by the first hinge member, creating a nested structure where one component is placed within another. This allows the elastic member to provide its function while being contained within the compact space of the hinge assembly, preventing the overall hinge part from becoming large.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Force

If an elastic member is disposed in the hinge part, then the hinge part provides elasticity for opening the cover, but assembly work efficiency is adversely affected

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveelasticityVSAvoidassembly work efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge part is divided into separate components: the first hinge member with the insertion space, the elastic member, and the second hinge member. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured and prepared independently, then assembled together by inserting the elastic member into the pre-formed insertion space, thereby improving assembly work efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Volume of moving object

If the elastic member is contained within the insertion space, then the hinge part remains compact, but the elastic member must be precisely positioned

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehinge part sizeVSAvoidelastic member positioning
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The insertion space acts as an intermediary structure that guides and positions the elastic member during assembly. By designing the insertion space with appropriate dimensions and features, the elastic member is automatically positioned correctly as it is inserted, reducing the need for high-precision manual positioning while maintaining the compact hinge part design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 prevents the hinge mechanism from becoming excessively large and enhances assembly work efficiency by ensuring the elastic member remains within the designated space, allowing for effective coupling of the cover plates without compromising elasticity.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic member that is disposed in the insertion space and provides elasticity for opening the cover plate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11576542B2Robotic dust collector
Publication Date: 2023.02.14 MAKITA CORP
  • US11576542B2 patent drawing
  • US11576542B2 patent drawing
  • US11576542B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A robotic dust collector includes: a cover plate that closes an opening of a housing; a first hinge member connected to the cover plate and having an insertion space; an elastic member disposed in the insertion space; and a second hinge member. The second hinge member includes a shaft part that is inserted in the insertion space and supports the elastic member. The second hinge member further includes a fixture part fixed to at least a part of the housing. The second hinge member supports the first hinge member in a manner that allows the first hinge member to rotate about a rotation axis.