Vacuum Cleaner Dual-Filter Detection Using Single Status Sensor

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vacuum cleaners face issues with complex and costly anti-omission mechanisms for dual filters, hermetic failures due to vibration, and dust accumulation, which can lead to damage and reduced performance.

Innovation Solution

A vacuum cleaner design utilizing a single status sensor for dual-filter anti-omission detection, an elastic hermetic member for dust prevention, and a spiral fitting structure to maintain hermetic integrity, along with a filter bracket with inclined surfaces and springy members for dust discharge.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If two micro-switches are used for dual-filter anti-omission detection, then the anti-omission function is achieved, but the cost and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanti-omission functionVSAvoidnumber of micro-switches
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the anti-omission detection functions for both the pre-filter and main filter into a single micro-switch. The micro-switch is positioned to be actuated by either filter when properly installed, creating a unified detection system that replaces what would traditionally require two separate micro-switches, thereby reducing cost and complexity while maintaining reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single micro-switch serves multiple functions by detecting the installation status of both the pre-filter and main filter. This universal detection mechanism allows one component to perform what would otherwise require two separate components, simplifying the overall system design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If independent anti-omission structures are designed for main filter and pre-filter, then each filter can be detected, but the spatial cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter installation detectionVSAvoidspatial cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the anti-omission structures for both filters into a single integrated detection point. Instead of providing separate detection mechanisms that would occupy different spatial locations, the design uses one micro-switch that can be actuated by either filter, thereby reducing the spatial footprint while maintaining comprehensive detection capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Device complexity

If hermetic closure is provided by bottom screw only, then the structure is simple, but hermetic failure occurs due to vibration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehermetic structureVSAvoidhermetic closure
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a pre-tightening screw that applies upward force to the filter bracket before operation, creating initial compression that compensates for the downward vibration forces generated during motor operation. This pre-applied counteracting force prevents the hermetic closure from loosening during use, addressing the vibration problem before it causes failure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The pre-tightening screw acts as a counterbalancing mechanism, providing an upward pre-tightening force that counteracts the downward vibration-induced loosening forces. This creates a force equilibrium that maintains hermetic closure reliability despite motor vibration during operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

4Ease of manufacture

If vertical filter mounting is used, then installation is simple, but dust accumulates on the filter bracket

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter installationVSAvoiddust accumulation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the dust accumulation problem from the filter mounting structure by introducing dust discharge holes in the filter bracket. These holes provide dedicated pathways for dust and debris to be removed from the system, separating the dust discharge function from the structural mounting function and preventing harmful accumulation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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

Simplifies the anti-omission detection, reduces costs, prevents hermetic failures, and effectively manages dust accumulation, ensuring reliable operation and extended product life.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic hermetic member is disposed between the status sensor and the through hole

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

prevents dust from intruding; achieves hermetic purposes

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHermetic sealing:

Implementation Method 3

an upward pre-tightening force is supplied to the pre-filter by the springy member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic recovery: Elastic Recovery

Implementation Method 4

spiral fitting structure to maintain hermetic integrity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical fastening: Mechanical Fastener

Implementation Method 5

make the fan cover and the upper end of the filter to press against each other

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Implementation Method 6

filter bracket with inclined surfaces and springy members for dust discharge

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentEP3549504B1Vacuum cleaner
Publication Date: 2023.03.22 SKYBEST ELECTRIC APPLIANCE (SUZHOU) CO LTD
  • EP3549504B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3549504B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3549504B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

Disclosed is a vacuum cleaner, comprising a dirty air inlet, a clean air outlet and an air channel arranged between the dirty air inlet and the clean air outlet. A vacuum generator (8) is arranged inside the air channel. A first filter (23) is arranged in the upper reach of the vacuum generator (8). A second filter (25) is arranged in the upper reach of the first filter (23). The vacuum cleaner further comprises a state sensor (5). When in a first state, the first filter (23) and the second filter (25) are combined to trigger the state sensor (5). When in a second state, the first filter (23) and the second filter (25) are not combined, and the state sensor (5) is not triggered. Missing mounting prevention detection of a main filter and a pre-filter can be realised at the same time by means of a micro-control switch, thereby saving on the cost.