Vacuum Cleaner Filter Assembly with Movable Lock and Seal Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum cleaners lack an efficient and user-friendly mechanism for removably installing and securing filter assemblies, which complicates filter replacement and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A vacuum cleaner design featuring a filter assembly with a movable lock member and seal system that allows for easy insertion and locking into a receptacle, enabling secure filtration and simple filter replacement by adjusting the relative spacing between the lock member and tray, thereby ensuring an effective seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If a filter assembly is designed to be removably installed in a vacuum cleaner, then filter replacement and maintenance become possible, but the mechanism for securing and removing the filter assembly becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The lock member is designed to be movable between a locked position (engaging the seal with the housing) and an unlocked position (releasing the seal), allowing the filter assembly to be securely fixed during operation and easily removed when needed. This dynamic mechanism resolves the contradiction by providing both secure attachment and simple removal through a single movable component.
2Ease of operation
If a lock member is made movable to engage and disengage the seal, then the filter assembly can be securely fixed and easily removed, but the structure of the filter housing becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The lock member serves multiple functions: it engages the seal to secure the filter assembly during operation, and when moved to the unlocked position, it releases the seal to enable removal. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate locking and releasing mechanisms, thereby simplifying the overall structure while improving ease of operation.
3Reliability
If the lock member engages the seal firmly to ensure a secure seal, then filtration effectiveness is improved, but the force required to remove the filter assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable lock member allows the seal to be firmly engaged during operation for reliable filtration, but when the lock member is moved to the unlocked position, the seal is released, enabling easy removal of the filter assembly. This dynamic switching between engaged and disengaged states resolves the contradiction between secure sealing and ease of removal.
Data Source
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AI summary
A vacuum cleaner includes a motor housing, a motor and fan assembly in communication with the motor housing, a housing forming a receptacle in fluid communication with the motor housing, and a filter assembly removably insertable into the receptacle. The filter assembly includes a filter supporting a filter. The filter assembly further includes a seal and a lock member movable relative to the tray between a locked position and an unlocked position. Movement of the lock member to the locked position engages the seal with the housing when the filter assembly is inserted in the receptacle.