Combined Vacuum Brush With Pedal-Driven Multi-Mode Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing combined brushes for vacuum cleaners can only switch between two operating modes, limiting their versatility and requiring separate external accessories, whereas the goal is to enable multiple accessories to be used simultaneously for different cleaning tasks without external accessories.
Innovation Solution
A combined brush design featuring a rotating shaft that intermittently translates multiple movable frames between retracted and extracted positions, allowing for multiple operating modes by depressing a single pedal, with mechanisms like cams and cam followers enabling the frames to change positions and accessories to be used simultaneously.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a combined brush uses a pedal-operated mechanism to switch between operating modes, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple mechanisms required for mode switching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple frame positioning mechanisms into a single integrated system. The pedal (7) connects to a shaft (4) that simultaneously controls the positioning of multiple frames (10, 11) through shared mechanical linkages, reducing the number of separate mechanisms while maintaining multi-mode functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The shaft (4) serves multiple functions: it transmits the pedal's rotational motion, engages with multiple cams (5, 6) to control different frames, and coordinates the simultaneous positioning of multiple accessories. This universal component reduces overall system complexity by consolidating control functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a brush is designed to support multiple accessories for different cleaning tasks, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple moving parts and mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The brush employs dynamic frame structures that can transition between retracted and extracted positions. The frames (10, 11) are designed to move selectively based on the cleaning task, allowing the brush to adapt its configuration without requiring separate devices for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The brush is divided into modular components: a fixed part (2) and multiple movable frames (10, 11), each capable of independent positioning. This segmentation allows selective deployment of accessories based on cleaning needs, reducing the effective complexity by only activating necessary components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple frames are used to hold different accessories, then the versatility is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase to ensure proper positioning and movement
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanisms (5, 6) are designed to automatically position the frames (10, 11) in their correct configurations during operation. The mechanical geometry of the cams ensures proper alignment and positioning through their inherent design, reducing the need for high-precision manual adjustment and assembly.
4Ease of operation
If a shaft mechanism is used to control multiple movable frames, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability decreases due to increased mechanical components that could fail
Solution Approach 1:
The shaft (4) operates through periodic rotation when the pedal is depressed, systematically cycling through the positioning of each frame in sequence. This periodic action ensures that each component is engaged in a controlled, predictable manner, reducing random failures and improving overall system reliability.
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
Enables the use of multiple accessories within a single brush, allowing for distinct operating modes such as cleaning floors, carpets, and liquids without external accessories, enhancing versatility and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
a pedal (7) which, while the accessories are used, is held lifted by a spring (73)
Implementation Method 2
The retracted position is usually held by means of at least one return spring (13), an end being connected to its corresponding movable frame
Data Source
AI summary
Multi-function combined brush (1) for vacuum cleaner. A brush (1) for vacuum cleaner of a “combined” type, i.e. a brush (1) capable of changing the operating mode without being obliged to replace the accessory, whose main feature consists of its possibility of alternating its functions, for instance carpets, floors, and liquids, by way of a pedal (7) featuring one static position. Very advantageously, the innovative solution according to the present application makes it possible to embody a combined brush (1) capable of performing different functions in one device.