Surface cleaning apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surface cleaning apparatuses lack a compact and ergonomic design, which affects their usability and efficiency in cleaning surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A surface cleaning apparatus with a housing that includes a suction source, a dirt collection chamber, and a battery, where the motor axle axis, dirt collection chamber axis, and battery axis are positioned to optimize ergonomics and compactness, allowing for a balanced distribution of components and reduced height, with optional inclusion of a cyclonic separator device for improved dirt separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the battery is positioned in conventional locations in existing surface cleaning apparatuses, then the structural design is simpler, but the ergonomic characteristics and compact height are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the battery underneath the suction source and dirt collection chamber, utilizing the vertical dimension (height) rather than only horizontal placement. This dimensional change achieves better weight distribution and ergonomic characteristics while reducing the overall compact height of the apparatus.
2Ease of operation
If the motor axle axis and dirt collection chamber axis are positioned conventionally, then the manufacturing is simpler, but the ergonomic characteristics and compactness are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric positioning where the motor axle axis and dirt collection chamber axis are arranged at specific non-traditional angles and positions relative to each other and the battery. This asymmetric arrangement optimizes the center of gravity and ergonomic characteristics while maintaining manufacturability through precise but not overly complex alignment requirements.
3Length of moving object
If the apparatus height is reduced for compactness, then the portability is improved, but the space for battery capacity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the battery underneath the suction source and dirt collection chamber, placing one component within the spatial envelope of another. This nesting arrangement maximizes the use of vertical space and reduces the overall apparatus height while still accommodating sufficient battery capacity for operational requirements.
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 apparatus achieves improved ergonomic characteristics and a reduced compact height, enhancing usability and cleaning efficiency while allowing for adjustable battery capacity using identical cells in different configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a cyclonic separator device having an elongate axis (B′) for separating dirt from the airflow through the apparatus
Implementation Method 2
a suction source including a motor with an axle having an axis (A) which rotates a fan
Data Source
AI summary
A surface cleaning apparatus including: a housing supporting: a suction source including a motor with an axle having an axis (A) which rotates a fan; a dirt collection chamber having an elongate axis (B); and a battery for providing power to operate the suction source, wherein the battery has an elongate axis (C); wherein the axis (A) of the motor axle and the elongate axis (B) of the dirt collection chamber extend transversely with respect to the elongate axis (C) of the battery.