Vacuum Cleaner Filter with Auto-Closing Valve for Hygienic Disposal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum cleaners require users to touch or grasp dirty filter bags to disconnect and dispose of them, which is undesirable due to the dirt and debris inside.
Innovation Solution
A vacuum cleaner design with a filter that includes a valve and a release mechanism, allowing the filter to be disconnected and disposed of without direct contact, using a movable valve that closes to prevent debris from being released during replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a filter bag is used to collect debris in vacuum cleaners, then debris collection capability is improved, but user safety and cleanliness deteriorate because users must touch or grasp the dirty bag to disconnect and dispose of it
Solution Approach 1:
A valve mechanism is introduced as an intermediary between the filter bag and the external environment. The valve includes a valve body with a valve seat and a valve member that can move between open and closed positions. When the filter bag is disconnected from the vacuum cleaner, the valve automatically closes to seal the opening, preventing direct exposure to debris while still allowing the filter bag to be removed and disposed of easily.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a valve mechanism is added to automatically close when filter is removed, then user cleanliness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve mechanism is designed to operate automatically without user intervention. The valve member is biased by a spring to normally remain in the closed position. When the filter bag is connected, the connection action automatically opens the valve. When the filter bag is removed, the spring automatically returns the valve member to the closed position, sealing the opening. This self-service operation eliminates the need for complex control systems, sensors, or power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a valve body with valve seat, a movable valve member, and a spring biasing mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be simple in design while collectively providing the automatic sealing function. The valve member can be a simple disc or plug that moves linearly, avoiding complex mechanical structures.
3Ease of operation
If the valve is designed to close automatically when filter is disconnected, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability may worsen due to potential valve failure
Solution Approach 1:
The spring biasing mechanism is pre-loaded to ensure the valve member maintains constant contact with the valve seat, creating a reliable seal before any disconnection occurs. The spring is designed with sufficient force to overcome any pressure differential that might occur during operation, ensuring the valve remains sealed under all operating conditions. This pre-loading compensates for manufacturing tolerances and wear over time.
Data Source
AI summary
A vacuum cleaner including a suction inlet, a conduit in fluid communication with the suction inlet, a filter having a valve releasably connected to a filter inlet, the filter configured to collect debris drawn through the suction inlet. The vacuum cleaner further comprising a release mechanism moveable from a first position to a second position. In the first position, the filter is in fluid communication with the conduit to collect debris with the valve being open, and in the second position, the filter is disconnected from the conduit with the valve being closed. Movement of the release mechanism between the first and second positions closes the valve.