Vacuum cleaner with plug-in module

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing suction devices require manufacturer-specific and type-specific communication devices to interact with hand-held power tools, limiting their universal compatibility and flexibility.

Innovation Solution

A plug-in module with a communication unit and power control unit that allows communication between the suction device and external units independently of the manufacturer or device type, using a universal plug-in module that can be connected to any suction device mains socket, enabling auto-start functionality and data exchange through wired or wireless signals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a manufacturer-specific external communication device is used to enable communication between the suction device and hand-held power tools, then communication functionality is achieved, but device complexity increases and universal compatibility is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuniversal compatibilityVSAvoidcommunication device complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal plug-in module that can be used with any suction device regardless of manufacturer or type. The module includes a communication unit that can establish communication connections with different hand-held power tools through a standardized interface, eliminating the need for manufacturer-specific communication devices. The module's electrical plug-in unit connects to the suction device's mains socket, providing a universal solution that works across different device generations and types.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The plug-in module serves as an intermediary device between the suction device and hand-held power tools. It contains a communication unit that mediates the communication connection, allowing the suction device to interact with different power tools without requiring direct integration. The module acts as a bridge that translates and manages communication signals between different devices, simplifying the overall system architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate manufacturer-specific communication devices are provided for different suction device types, then communication with specific device types is enabled, but adaptability to new or different device types is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with different suction devicesVSAvoidcommunication reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The communication unit in the plug-in module is designed to be universal and adaptable to different suction device types and generations. It can establish communication connections with various hand-held power tools through a standardized interface, ensuring reliable communication across different device types without requiring manufacturer-specific implementations. The module works with both corded and cordless power tools, providing consistent communication functionality.

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

3Extent of automation

If no integrated power control is implemented, then device simplicity is maintained, but automated functionality such as auto-start is unavailable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveauto-start functionalityVSAvoidpower control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power control unit in the plug-in module enables the suction device to automatically start when a hand-held power tool is connected. The system uses the existing electrical connection through the mains socket to detect when a power tool is attached and automatically activates the suction device without requiring separate control switches or additional user actions. This self-service approach provides automated functionality while utilizing existing infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3599961B1Vacuum cleaner with plug-in module
Publication Date: 2022.05.04 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • EP3599961B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3599961B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3599961B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~3c

AI summary

The invention relates to a system (10), comprising a vacuum apparatus (20) having a vacuum apparatus housing (21) and having at least one vacuum apparatus mains socket (22), the at least one vacuum apparatus mains socket (22) being attached to the vacuum apparatus housing (21). According to the invention, the system (10) additionally comprises a plug-in module (40), having a plug-in module communication unit (41), an electrical plug-in module mains plug unit (43), and a current control unit (42), which is designed to control an electrical current (36) between the plug-in module (40) and the vacuum apparatus (20).