Corded Vacuum Cleaner Cable Connection with Movable Undercut Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing corded tools, such as suction devices, face difficulties in replacing defective power cables due to complex connections that require specialist tools and result in increased repair costs and downtime, especially when the device-side end of the power cable is connected to a rotatably mounted retractor drum.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for establishing a secure connection between a connection part of a corded tool and a plug connector, allowing the connection part to pivot between a locking and release position, using an undercut mechanism to ensure a form-fit lock, enabling easy connection and disconnection without tools, and maintaining the functionality of the retractor drum.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the power cable is firmly connected to the working device using soldering or dismantling the device, then the connection strength is improved, but the ease of repair deteriorates and repair time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection part is divided into a fixed housing portion and a movable connection element that can be independently operated. The connection element can be released and reconnected without affecting the entire device, enabling easy power cable replacement while maintaining strong connections during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection part is designed with a movable connection element that can transition between locked and unlocked states. This dynamic design allows the connection to be firmly secured during operation while enabling easy release and replacement of the power cable when needed.
2Strength
If additional locking and strain relief devices are provided for the cable, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity increases and ease of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism and strain relief function are merged into a single integrated connection part. The movable connection element provides both locking capability and strain relief without requiring separate devices, thus maintaining connection strength while reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection part is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: electrical connection, mechanical locking, and strain relief. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate locking devices and strain relief components, reducing device complexity while maintaining connection strength.
3Ease of operation
If a simple plug-in connection is used between the cable and the winding drum, then the ease of operation is improved, but the connection strength deteriorates under high tensile forces
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element transitions from a static plug-in design to a dynamic system that automatically locks upon insertion. The movable connection element engages with locking features in the housing, providing simple plug-in operation while achieving strong mechanical locking that can withstand high tensile forces during cable winding and unwinding.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3(a)~3(b)
Figure 4(a)~4(b)
AI summary
The invention relates to a corded power tool, in particular a dry vacuum cleaner, with an electrical connection part (24) that can be moved between a locking position and a release position. According to the invention, the power tool forms an undercut (26) for a connector (32) connected to the connection part (24) in the locking position. The invention further relates to a method for establishing a secure connection between a connection part (24) of a corded power tool, in particular a dry vacuum cleaner, and a connector (32) comprising the steps of: connecting the connector (32) to the electrical connection part (24) in a release position; and moving the connection part (24) from the release position to a locking position, wherein in the locking position the power tool forms an undercut (26) for the connector (32).