Table ventilation device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Table ventilation devices face challenges in filter accessibility due to their design, particularly with odor filters positioned downstream of the fan, making it difficult and cumbersome for users to replace filters without additional handling aids.

Innovation Solution

A table ventilation device with a motorized extension means that allows the filter module to be moved from an operating position to a removal position, enabling easy access and replacement of filters, including odor filters, by positioning them above the vapor extraction opening for ergonomic replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the table ventilation device is positioned below the worktop behind the hob, then the device achieves a compact design and proper vapor extraction positioning, but the filters become difficult to access for replacement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter accessibilityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a motorized extension means that can dynamically change the position of the filter module between a retracted state (within the device) and an extended state (protruding above the worktop). This dynamic positioning system allows the filters to be easily accessible during maintenance while maintaining a compact integrated design during normal operation, resolving the contradiction between filter accessibility and device compactness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of manufacture

If the odor filter is positioned downstream of the fan at the air outlet, then the filter effectively captures odors, but the filter becomes even more difficult to reach and replace

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter replacement effortVSAvoidfilter positioning
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary extension means that acts as a mechanical bridge between the filter module and the user. This extension mechanism allows the filter to remain positioned downstream of the fan for effective odor capture while providing a mechanical means to extend the filter above the worktop, making it accessible for replacement without requiring complex disassembly of the device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If the filter module is located 10-20 cm below the appliance upper edge, then the device maintains a sleek appearance, but filter replacement requires reaching through a narrow opening

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter replacement convenienceVSAvoidappliance profile
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The motorized extension means provides dynamic repositioning capability, allowing the filter module to be extended above the appliance upper edge only when needed for maintenance. During normal operation, the filter remains retracted to maintain the sleek appliance profile. This dynamic solution eliminates the need to choose between aesthetic design and maintenance convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

This design simplifies filter maintenance by allowing convenient and cost-effective removal of filters, reducing user effort and complexity, while maintaining the device's compactness and functionality.

Implementation Method 1

a drive unit for the motorized retraction and extension of the extension means

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS20220275949A1Table ventilation device
Publication Date: 2022.09.01 BSH HAUSGERATE GMBH
  • US20220275949A1 patent drawing
  • US20220275949A1 patent drawing
  • US20220275949A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A table ventilation device includes a filter module, an extension means, and a drive unit for motorized retraction and extension of the extension means. The drive unit is designed to move the filter module from a filter module operating position into a filter module removal position.