Hand Vacuum Cyclone Gap Structure for Better Dirt Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cyclonic surface cleaning apparatuses face inefficiencies in dirt collection and air filtration due to the design of cyclones and dirt collection chambers, which can lead to suboptimal separation of dirt from air and clogging issues.
Innovation Solution
A cyclone with an open end and a plate positioned to create a gap of non-uniform length between the plate and the cyclone's open end, where the plate has a sidewall extending partially around it, enhancing dirt collection and air flow passage design for improved dirt separation and filtration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a uniform gap is provided between the plate and the cyclone open end, then the structure is simple, but the dirt collection efficiency is suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing a non-uniform gap between the plate and the cyclone open end. The gap has different lengths at different locations: a first gap length at a first location and a second gap length at a second location. This allows different regions of the gap to serve different functions - some regions facilitate dirt collection while others optimize air flow, thereby improving overall dirt collection efficiency without requiring a completely complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The non-uniform gap configuration creates dynamic flow characteristics within the cyclone. By varying the gap length, the patent enables different air velocities and pressure distributions at different locations, which enhances the separation efficiency of dirt particles from the air stream while maintaining structural simplicity.
2Reliability
If the cyclone chamber is tightly sealed, then structural integrity is improved, but clogging issues increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the gap structure into multiple regions with different gap lengths. This segmentation allows the system to maintain structural integrity through the plate and cyclone assembly while creating controlled openings that prevent clogging. The divided gap structure enables air and dirt to flow through different paths, reducing the risk of complete blockage.
3Productivity
If a simple plate configuration is used, then manufacturing is easier, but dirt separation efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The plate is configured with a non-uniform gap arrangement rather than a simple uniform design. This local variation in gap quality improves dirt separation efficiency by creating optimal flow conditions at different locations. The plate itself remains a relatively simple component that can be manufactured using standard techniques, but the strategic placement of different gap lengths enhances performance.
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
This design enhances the separation of dirt from air, improves the efficiency of dirt collection, and reduces clogging by allowing for a variable gap length and sidewall configuration, optimizing the cyclone's dirt collection chamber and air flow passage.
Implementation Method 1
Cyclonic surface cleaning apparatuses face inefficiencies in dirt collection and air filtration due to the design of cyclones and dirt collection chambers
Implementation Method 2
Cyclonic surface cleaning apparatuses face inefficiencies in dirt collection and air filtration due to the design of cyclones and dirt collection chambers
Data Source
AI summary
A hand vacuum cleaner has a cyclonic stage comprising an openable front wall provided at the front end of the cyclonic stage. A pre-motor filter is positioned in the air flow passage downstream from the cyclone air outlet and rearward of the cyclone sidewall. The pre-motor filter has a diameter in a direction transverse to the cyclone axis that is larger than a diameter of the cyclone air outlet in the direction transverse to the cyclone axis. The pre-motor filter has an outer perimeter defining a volume and the cyclone axis and the motor axis each extend through a centre of the volume. The cyclone axis is generally parallel to the motor axis. When the openable front wall is opened, the front end of the cyclone stage is opened and has an opening, the opening has a diameter in the direction transverse to the cyclone axis, and the rear end of the cyclonic stage has a diameter that is generally equal to the diameter of the opening. The cyclonic stage is removable from a cleaner body which houses the suction motor with the openable front wall in a closed position. When the first cyclonic stage is removed, the pre-motor filter is accessible for removal.