Vacuum Cleaner Exhaust Filter Layout for Noise and Odor Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exhaust air filter systems in household appliances, such as vacuum cleaners, face challenges in reducing noise pollution and odor issues due to turbulent air flow and the accumulation of bacteria and dust mites, which lead to unpleasant odors and increased moisture.
Innovation Solution
A filter device with a HEPA filter and air guiding ribs that direct the filtered exhaust air into a relaxation area, combined with a sound-absorbing layer, to calm the air flow and reduce noise, while maintaining effective particle and odor filtration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional filter arrangements are used in vacuum cleaners, then dust and particles can be filtered from exhaust air, but considerable noise nuisance occurs due to diffuse air turbulence and turbulent flow conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The filter arrangement is segmented into multiple functional zones: a first filter section for particle filtration, a second filter section for odor absorption, and an integrated sound absorber. This segmentation allows each section to optimize its specific function while collectively reducing noise through distributed flow management and turbulence reduction across multiple interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
A sound absorber is introduced as an intermediary element between the filter arrangement and the exhaust air outlet. This sound absorber acts as a mediator that converts turbulent kinetic energy into thermal energy through viscous dissipation, thereby reducing noise without interfering with the filtration function. The sound absorber material provides a transition zone that calms the exhaust air flow before it exits.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If exhaust air is blown out through conventional filter arrangements, then filtered air is discharged, but unpleasant odors develop due to accumulation of bacteria and dust mites in the filter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two distinct filtration functions into a single integrated filter assembly: a first filter section for particle/dust filtration and a second filter section for odor absorption. This merging allows both functions to work synergistically within one compact structure, eliminating the need for separate filter units while addressing both particle and odor removal simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter assembly uses composite material structure with different filter media: a particulate filter material for capturing dust and particles, and an activated carbon filter material for adsorbing odors and gaseous contaminants. This composite approach leverages the complementary properties of different materials to achieve multi-functional filtration within a single assembly.
3Reliability
If multiple filter stages are placed in series to maximize dust capture, then filtration efficiency increases, but air turbulence and noise increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each filter section is designed with local quality optimization: the first filter section uses a frame structure with optimized geometry to minimize flow separation and turbulence, while the second filter section is positioned and dimensioned to maintain laminar flow conditions. The sound absorber is strategically placed at the outlet where turbulence is most problematic, providing localized noise reduction without compromising overall filtration efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent addresses turbulence by transitioning from a two-dimensional flow pattern to a three-dimensional flow management approach. The sound absorber and filter sections are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration that allows exhaust air to flow through multiple paths and zones, distributing the flow and reducing concentrated turbulence. This spatial arrangement helps convert turbulent three-dimensional flow into more uniform flow patterns.
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
The solution effectively reduces noise and odor issues by converting turbulent air flows into laminar flows, minimizing air turbulence and unpleasant smells, and enhancing the overall filtration efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an air-permeable sound absorber arranged downstream in series with the air filter
Implementation Method 2
a rectified or laminar and/or by means of the expansion space also a calmed (laminar) exhaust air flow
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The apparatus (10) has a housing (13) for receiving a filter assembly (12) downstream to an inlet (14) of the housing. The housing comprises an outlet (15) for exhaust stream (11) received downstream to the filter assembly. The outlet is coupled with a relaxation region (17) for the exhaust stream, and air circulation ribs (16) are arranged downstream to the outlet. The air circulation ribs are arranged in a transition region by the outlet, and are parallel to each other in the relaxation region. An independent claim is also included for a method for cleaning an exhaust stream in a household appliance.