Self-Powered Vacuum Tool Light Assembly Using Airflow Generator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum tools lack effective illumination in low-light conditions, making it difficult for users to see what is being cleaned, especially in areas like narrow spaces, shelves, and hardwood floors, and existing lit tools are costly due to the need for electrified hoses and couplers.
Innovation Solution
A self-powered light assembly integrated with vacuum tools that generates electricity using airflow, powering light-emitting diodes to illuminate the cleaning area, with a lens system to concentrate light and a cover to prevent light leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If electrified hoses and couplers are used to power light assemblies, then illumination is provided, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The light assembly is self-powered by converting the kinetic energy of airflow into electrical energy through a generator. The system uses its own operating environment (airflow) to generate power, eliminating the need for external electrical connections, batteries, or complex wiring systems. This self-service approach resolves the contradiction by providing illumination without increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes pneumatic energy (airflow) to drive the generator and produce electrical power for the light assembly. By converting the kinetic energy of the air stream into electricity, the system eliminates the need for electrified hoses and complex electrical infrastructure, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining illumination.
2Illumination intensity
If electrified hoses and couplers are used to power light assemblies, then illumination is provided, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The self-powered light assembly eliminates the need for expensive electrified hoses, couplers, and associated electrical infrastructure. By using a simple generator-converter system that harnesses existing airflow, the design reduces manufacturing costs while providing effective illumination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the power generation function from the external electrical system and integrates it directly into the light assembly. This extraction eliminates the need for complex electrical components and reduces manufacturing costs by using a simpler, self-contained system.
3Illumination intensity
If airflow is diverted to power the light assembly, then illumination is provided, but suction power may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a portion of the available airflow to power the light assembly while maintaining sufficient airflow for effective vacuum operation. The generator is designed to convert kinetic energy from a fraction of the air stream, ensuring that illumination is provided without significantly compromising suction power.
4Use of energy by moving object
If a lens system is added to concentrate light, then illumination efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lens system is strategically positioned to concentrate light only where needed (at the tool tip or working area), providing high illumination efficiency in the critical zone without requiring a complex optical system throughout the entire device. This localized approach improves efficiency while minimizing added complexity.
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
Provides efficient and economical illumination for vacuum tools, enhancing user visibility in low-light conditions without the need for additional electrical connections, maintaining suction power and ensuring effective debris removal.
Implementation Method 1
The generator generates an electrical current in response to the fan rotor turning. The generator is positioned in the housing to move air across the fan rotor thereby turning the fan rotor, so the generator generates the electrical current when air is being drawn though the housing and the interior passage of the conduit.
Implementation Method 2
The circuit energizes the light emitting device to emit light energy in response to receiving the electrical current from the generator.
Implementation Method 3
The light assembly also includes a lens mounted in the housing and aligned with the light emitting device for concentrating the light energy emitted by the light.
Data Source
AI summary
An assemblage for use with a vacuum having a conduit. The assemblage includes a light assembly including a housing and a generator having a fan rotor. The generator generates an electrical current in response to the fan rotor turning. The generator is positioned in the housing to move air across the fan rotor. The light assembly includes a circuit operatively connected to the generator and a light emitting device. The circuit energizes the light emitting device to emit light energy in response to receiving the electrical current from the generator. The light assembly also includes a lens aligned with the light emitting device for concentrating the light energy. The assemblage includes a tool assembly including a light transmitting body mounted adjacent to the lens. The tool assembly includes a cover surrounding the light transmitting body to prevent light energy from being emitted through the cover.