Vacuum Filter Assembly With Elastic Cap for Fast Secure Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum cleaner filter systems are cumbersome and time-consuming to replace, often requiring separate retaining mechanisms that can be lost or misplaced, and may result in filter dislodgment during handling, leading to leakage and damage.
Innovation Solution
A filter assembly with a cap and annular end ring made of flexible material, featuring a centrally located opening that expands to fit over the mounting post and contracts to secure the filter in place, eliminating the need for separate retaining mechanisms and ensuring a secure seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a threaded stud and nut combination is used to attach the filter to the mounting assembly, then the filter can be securely retained in axial compression, but the filter replacement becomes time-consuming and the retaining mechanism can be lost or misplaced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the threaded nut retaining mechanism from the filter assembly, extracting the problematic component that caused time loss and potential loss/misplacement. The filter is retained through the elastic deformation of the cap material itself, which eliminates the need for separate retaining fasteners.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of the cap material from rigid to elastic, allowing it to deform under compression and retain the filter through elastic memory. This parameter change enables the cap to function as both a mounting interface and a retaining mechanism without requiring additional components.
2Strength
If a rigid cage structure is used to support the filter and prevent collapse, then the filter maintains structural integrity during operation, but the overall device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cage structure with the filter assembly by making the cap an integral part of the filter rather than a separate component. The cap provides both the mounting interface and the retaining function, eliminating the need for a separate cage structure and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap serves multiple functions: it provides the mounting interface for attaching the filter to the vacuum appliance, it retains the filter through elastic deformation, and it protects the filter element during handling and operation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate structural components.
3Reliability
If separate retaining mechanisms are used to secure the filter, then the filter can be securely attached, but the risk of leakage and damage increases due to improper assembly and lost components
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic cap material automatically adjusts to maintain proper compression and seal the filter in place without requiring separate retaining mechanisms. The elastic deformation provides self-regulating retention that adapts to assembly variations, eliminating the risk of improper assembly and associated leakage or damage.
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
Facilitates quick and effective replacement and cleaning of filters, maintains secure attachment during operation, and can be retro-fitted to existing vacuum appliances, reducing the risk of leakage and damage.
Implementation Method 1
the cap and the end ring are comprised of an flexible material... the opening in the cap has an uncompressed diameter smaller than the diameter of a portion of the mounting post, such that, during assembly, the opening expands in diameter to fit over the portion of the mounting post, and thereafter contracts in diameter so as to retain the filter assembly over the filter cage
Data Source
AI summary
Vacuum cleaner filters, in particular replaceable vacuum cleaner filters suitable for both dry and wet/dry type vacuum cleaners are disclosed, as well as systems incorporating the use of such filters and methods for their use. The filters include a plurality of adjacently positioned pleats arranged in a closed circumferential, cylindrically-shaped path, a top end cap having a central orifice capable of constricting a post on a vacuum filter cage, and optionally a molded end ring oppositely-spaced from the top end cap for engagement with the motor housing of a vacuum cleaner.