Surface cleaning apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surface cleaning apparatuses face challenges in efficient dirt separation and weight distribution, particularly when used in handheld configurations, leading to suboptimal handling and separation performance.
Innovation Solution
A surface cleaning apparatus featuring a floor head, a housing with a suction source, and a dirt collection container connected by an elongate member with intersecting axes, incorporating a cyclonic separation device and a handle design that improves weight distribution and airflow efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the elongate axis of the dirt collection container is oriented vertically, then the separation efficiency is improved, but the weight distribution and handling are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the orientation of the cyclonic separation device from vertical to horizontal, representing a dimensional change in the configuration of the separation system. This allows the apparatus to maintain effective dirt separation while improving weight distribution and handling characteristics by positioning the heavy components along the horizontal axis rather than vertical axis.
2Ease of operation
If the cyclonic separation device is positioned away from the suction source, then the weight distribution is improved, but the airflow path length is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the cyclonic separation device horizontally adjacent to the suction source rather than vertically above or below it. This spatial reconfiguration in a different dimension allows the separation device to be positioned away from the suction source in the vertical direction, improving weight distribution, while maintaining a short airflow path through horizontal connection.
3Ease of operation
If the apparatus is designed for handheld use, then the portability is improved, but the separation performance is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs horizontal orientation of the cyclonic separation device in handheld configurations, allowing the heavy separation components to be distributed along the horizontal axis. This maintains effective separation performance while balancing the weight distribution for better handheld ergonomics and portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the apparatus with adaptable configuration that can operate effectively in handheld mode with horizontal separation device orientation, maintaining separation performance through dynamic adaptation of the airflow path and separation mechanism to the compact handheld form factor.
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 intersecting axes design enhances handling and separation efficiency by optimizing weight distribution and airflow path, resulting in improved performance and usability, especially in handheld configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a cyclonic separation device for separating dirt from the airflow passing through the apparatus
Implementation Method 2
said device having an elongate axis (A)... the elongate axis (B) of the elongate member intersects or substantially intersects the elongate axis (A) of the cyclonic separation device
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A surface cleaning apparatus including a floor head (12), a housing (10) supporting a suction source, a dirt collection container (18) and an elongate member (14) having an elongate axis B, wherein the elongate member (14) connects the floor head (12) to the housing (10) and includes a passage for carrying dirt-laden air from the floor head (12) to the dirt collection container (18).