Vacuum cleaner tool having a rotatable duct for moving between a use position and storage position on a vacuum cleaner
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vacuum cleaner tools are typically stored separately from the vacuum cleaner, making them less accessible for storage and potentially leading to air leaks when attached, which disrupt suction power.
Innovation Solution
A powered vacuum cleaner tool with a rotatable duct that can move between a use position and a storage position, attaching to the vacuum cleaner via a manual release mechanism and featuring a seal for a friction-based connection to maintain suction, allowing easy storage and secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the vacuum cleaner tool is stored separately from the vacuum cleaner, then it is easily accessible for use, but it is not space-efficient and may lead to air leaks when attached
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum cleaner tool is merged with the vacuum cleaner body through an integrated storage mechanism. The tool can be stored in a dedicated compartment or attached to the vacuum cleaner housing, combining two previously separate storage locations into one unified system that maintains both accessibility and seal integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The vacuum cleaner tool is nested within or alongside the vacuum cleaner body when not in use. The tool can be stored in a recessed compartment or clipped to the housing, allowing it to occupy space within the overall vacuum cleaner structure rather than requiring separate external storage.
2Reliability
If the vacuum cleaner tool is attached to the vacuum cleaner, then it maintains suction power through sealed connection, but it reduces ease of access for storage and retrieval
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism between the vacuum cleaner tool and vacuum cleaner body is made dynamic rather than static. A quick-release latch or snap-fit mechanism allows the tool to be rapidly attached and detached with one hand, enabling the tool to transition easily between stored and operational states while maintaining seal integrity when attached.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection interface between the tool and vacuum cleaner body incorporates localized sealing elements such as gaskets or rubber seals at the attachment point. This ensures that suction power is maintained through sealed connection when attached, while the rest of the tool structure remains lightweight and easy to handle for quick storage and retrieval.
3Ease of operation
If a manual release mechanism is used for attachment, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is segmented into simple, discrete components such as a latch, catch, or snap-fit elements. Each component performs a single function, and the overall mechanism can be operated with one hand without requiring complex coordination multiple moving parts or sophisticated control systems.
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 easy access for storage on the vacuum cleaner while maintaining suction power by ensuring a secure attachment and minimizing air leaks, enhancing usability and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
A seal on the brush head or rotatable duct serves to create a friction-based connection between the brush head and rotatable duct during use. In this manner, the suction at the brush head inlet is not disrupted by any air leaks.
Data Source
AI summary
A vacuum cleaner tool having a brush head, a rotatable duct, and a hinge. The rotatable duct is configured to receive a hose or wand and rotates about the hinge relative to the brush head, between a use position and storage position. In a storage position, the rotatable duct extends generally parallel, or in-line with the brush head and, in a use position, the rotatable duct extends generally perpendicular to the brush head. The vacuum cleaner tool may removably attach to the vacuum cleaner via a release on one end of the brush head interacting with a fixed catch on the vacuum cleaner.