Vacuum Cleaner Base Crossbeam Lock for Upright Handle Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional upright vacuum cleaners face challenges in securely holding the handle in the upright position, especially when the suction motor and dirt collection device are positioned in the handle, which increases weight and requires robust locking mechanisms that can be complex and costly to produce.
Innovation Solution
A resiliently-deformable crossbeam integrated with the vacuum cleaner's base or handle assembly, combined with a protrusion that rotates and deforms to hold the handle in place until an unlocking force is applied, eliminating the need for separate springs or pedals and simplifying the locking mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a robust multi-part spring-and-catch locking mechanism is used to securely hold the handle in the upright position, then the reliability of the locking mechanism is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking mechanism components by integrating the resilient crossbeam directly into the base structure, eliminating the need for separate spring assemblies and catch mechanisms. The crossbeam itself performs both the resilient deformation function and the locking engagement function, reducing the number of parts while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the complex multi-part spring-and-catch system and replaces it with a single resilient crossbeam element that performs the same locking function through elastic deformation, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining the essential locking capability
2Device complexity
If a compact pedal-operated latch is used for the handle lock mechanism, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of the locking mechanism may be insufficient for heavy handles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the resilient support function and the locking engagement function into a single crossbeam structure that is integrally formed with or attached to the base, creating a unified component that provides both structural support and secure locking for heavy handles
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the locking mechanism by using a resilient crossbeam with specific elastic properties that allow it to deform under load and provide secure engagement, transforming the locking mechanism from a rigid multi-part system to a flexible single-element system with appropriate mechanical properties
3Ease of operation
If the suction motor and dirt collection device are positioned in the handle, then the weight distribution is improved for maneuverability, but the handle weight increases requiring a more robust locking mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the mechanical parameters of the locking system by using a resilient crossbeam with increased strength and stiffness characteristics that can support the additional handle weight while maintaining the same basic structural approach, allowing the weight increase without proportionally increasing complexity
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 solution provides a secure and cost-effective way to lock the handle in the upright position, reducing the risk of unwanted tipping and eliminating the need for complex or heavy components, while allowing easy transition between upright and reclined positions.
Implementation Method 1
The protrusion is shaped to deform the crossbeam from the undeformed position to a deformed position when the protrusion is moved between the first side of the crossbeam and the second side of the crossbeam
Data Source
AI summary
A vacuum cleaner having base and handle assemblies. The base has a bottom face, left and right side regions, an opening between the left and right side regions, and a resiliently-deformable crossbeam extending across the opening. The handle is at least partially in the opening and pivotally mounted to the base. The handle is rotatable, relative to the base, between upright and reclined positions. A protrusion extends from the handle and rotates through an arc that intersects the crossbeam. The protrusion contacts one side of the crossbeam when the handle is upright, and is on another side of and spaced from the crossbeam when the handle is reclined. The protrusion deforms the crossbeam when the protrusion is moved past the crossbeam. The cleaner also has a suction inlet on the base, a suction source, a dirt collector, and air passages connecting the suction inlet, suction source and dirt collector.