Multilayer Vacuum Drawer Lid With Nested Pump and PCB Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum drawer devices have lids that are bulky, prone to interference, and require manual operation, leading to potential operational errors and increased energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer lid design with integrated components such as a pump, fan, sensors, and control circuitry, allowing for automated and compact operation with minimal height and reduced susceptibility to interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If lifting and evacuation mechanisms are integrated into the lid to minimize height, then the lid becomes more compact, but it becomes heavier and bulkier
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is divided into multiple functional layers: an outer cover layer, a core layer containing recesses for mechanisms, and an inner cover layer. This segmentation allows compact integration of lifting and evacuation mechanisms while distributing weight and maintaining a minimal overall height profile.
2Extent of automation
If mechanisms are integrated into the lid for compact operation, then automation is improved, but susceptibility to interference and malfunctions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting and evacuation mechanisms are nested within recesses formed in the core layer of the lid. This nested arrangement protects the mechanisms from external interference while maintaining automated functionality, reducing susceptibility to malfunctions during repeated operations.
3Ease of operation
If manual operation is required, then operational control is maintained, but energy consumption increases and operational errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The lid incorporates automated lifting and evacuation mechanisms that operate without continuous manual intervention. The system performs vacuum evacuation and lid operation automatically, eliminating the need for manual pumping and reducing energy consumption compared to manual operation methods.
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
Ensures a maintenance-free, error-free, and energy-efficient operation of the vacuum drawer device by integrating components within the lid, enhancing its overall value and reducing food waste through prolonged food preservation.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum could be generated in the drawer interior by means of a pump
Implementation Method 2
The drawer interior is evacuated to a slight negative pressure
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a multilayer cover (2) with a sandwich design for placing on a drawer (3) of a vacuum drawer device (0), said cover allowing an evacuation of the drawer interior (R) after sealing against the drawer (3), wherein the cover (2) has at least one outer air-tight cover layer (22', 22") and a core layer (21'), and recesses (A) are molded into the core layer (21') and partly into one of the at least one outer cover layer (22"), an evacuation channel, a pump, and at least one sensor being arranged therein. The cover is to have a more compact design with a very low height, resulting in a minimal susceptibility to malfunction. This is achieved in that a printed circuit board (20') is arranged on one of the at least one outer air-tight cover layers (22', 22") so as to face the core layer (21') or the at least one outer air-tight cover layer (22', 22") is designed as a printed circuit board (20') on which the core layer (21') lies and on which the electric components integrated into the cover (2) are mechanically held and are electrically connected.