Suction Extraction Device Flow Sensor Clogging Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing suction extraction devices for suction drill bits do not effectively monitor and alert users to clogging, which can lead to reduced efficiency and performance due to inadequate air flow detection.

Innovation Solution

A suction extraction device with a flow sensor and evaluation unit that detects alternating air flow patterns and emits an error signal if the air flow falls below a threshold for a prescribed period, indicating potential clogging, and includes a signaling unit to alert the user.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a flow sensor is added to detect air flow patterns, then clogging detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclogging detection capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The flow sensor provides continuous feedback on air flow conditions to the evaluation unit, which compares the signal against threshold values and triggers appropriate responses (error signal or maintenance mode) based on the detected flow pattern, enabling automatic clogging detection without manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual clogging inspection with an automated electronic detection system using a flow sensor that converts air flow information into electrical signals for processing, substituting mechanical observation with electronic measurement and automated evaluation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If the sensor surface is positioned close to the suction drill bit for better detection, then measurement precision is improved, but the sensor becomes more susceptible to dust and debris

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveair flow detection precisionVSAvoiddust and debris exposure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor surface is positioned at a specific optimal distance and angular range (less than 60° around the working axis) to achieve sufficient measurement precision while maintaining adequate separation from the drill bit to minimize direct exposure to dust and debris generated during drilling operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The cavity structure acts as an intermediary space between the suction drill bit and the flow sensor, allowing the sensor to detect air flow patterns indirectly while being protected from direct contact with dust and debris that are present in the immediate drilling zone

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 device effectively monitors air flow and alerts users to clogging, ensuring continuous operation and maintaining suction drill bit performance by preventing air flow obstruction.

Implementation Method 1

a flow sensor (37) arranged in the cavity (28) and serving to emit a measuring signal (41) that is indicative of the air flow that is striking the sensor surface (44)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAir flow detection:

Implementation Method 2

The suction extraction device draws in the dust-laden air from the suction drill bit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuction: Suction

Implementation Method 3

A filter separates the dust into a collection container

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentUS10759035B2Suction extraction device
Publication Date: 2020.09.01 HILTI AG
  • US10759035B2 patent drawing
  • US10759035B2 patent drawing
  • US10759035B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A suction extraction device has a fan, a suction head, a channel leading from the suction head to the fan, a dust filter and a collection container to hold the dust that has been deposited on the dust filter. The suction head has a tubular cavity that is arranged around the working axis and that serves to accommodate the connection section of the suction drill bit. Arranged in the cavity is a flow sensor that has a sensor surface facing the working axis and that serves to emit a measuring signal that is indicative of the air flow that is striking the sensor surface. An evaluation unit emits an error signal in response to the measuring signal if the measuring signal is lower than a threshold value for at least a prescribed period of time, whereas it suppresses the error signal if the measuring signal exceeds the threshold value during the prescribed period of time. A signaling unit displays the error signal to a user.