Suction Duct Coupling Ring for One-Handed Lock Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum cleaner duct coupling devices are costly to manufacture due to complex assembly requirements and complicate user operation with multiple key presses for unlocking, affecting ergonomics.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with a female and male part featuring elastic means and a rotating ring with an angular cam, allowing single-axis insertion for locking and single-direction pivoting for unlocking, reducing component count and simplifying user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate keys and locking mechanisms are used to secure the male part, then the locking reliability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking functions into a single integrated elastic axial stop that works with a single rotating ring. Instead of using separate keys and locking mechanisms, the elastic axial stop performs both locking and unlocking functions through its interaction with the rotating ring, thereby reducing component count while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating ring serves multiple functions: it acts as both the unlocking interface and the mechanism to disengage the elastic axial stop. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate keys or additional unlocking components, reducing overall device complexity
2Reliability
If multiple separate keys are required for unlocking, then the locking security is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to complicated user interaction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple key operations into a single rotating ring interface. The user interacts with only one component (the rotating ring) to both lock and unlock the connection, eliminating the need to press multiple separate keys and significantly improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic axial stop automatically engages and disengages based on the position of the rotating ring. When the rotating ring is rotated to the unlocked position, the elastic axial stop self-disengages without requiring additional user actions, making the unlocking process simpler and more intuitive
3Reliability
If a complex assembly of parts is used to create the locking mechanism, then the locking reliability is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates due to high assembly requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces the number of parts that need to be assembled by merging multiple locking functions into the elastic axial stop and rotating ring. This simplification directly reduces manufacturing complexity and assembly requirements while maintaining the reliability of the locking mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic axial stop is designed as a separate, modular component that can be manufactured independently and then assembled into the female part. This segmentation allows for simpler manufacturing of individual components and easier assembly, reducing overall manufacturing cost
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 reduces manufacturing costs and enhances ergonomics by allowing easy, single-action coupling and uncoupling, enabling one-handed operation without requiring counter-torque, thus improving user convenience and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
elastic means linked to one of the female axial stop or the male axial stop to make it mobile and arranged to allow the engagement and automatic abutment
Implementation Method 2
at least one rotating ring comprising an angular cam, arranged to be pivoted from a first position where the elastic means are free, to a second position where the elastic means are constrained by the angular cam
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
A coupling device for a suction duct, the device comprising: -a female part (10) and -a male part (20) designed to be inserted into the female part (10) as far as a coupling position, the female part (10) comprising at least one female axial stop, the male part (20) comprising at least one male axial stop, -elastic means connected to one of the female axial stop or the male axial stop, characterized in that the device also comprises: -at least one rotary ring (30) comprising an angular cam, designed to be pivoted from a first position in which the elastic means are free to a second position in which the elastic means are constrained by the angular cam.