Vacuum Cleaner Lid Latch With Deflectable Arm Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latches on wet/dry vacuum cleaners are not secure enough and can become inadvertently unlatched, posing a risk of the lid opening and contents spilling.
Innovation Solution
A new latch mechanism comprising a stationary part with a hooked end and a pivoting latch that engages a deflectable arm to create a secure latched position, using a stationary retaining surface and a latching surface to prevent the lid from being lifted, with a user-friendly tab for switching between latched and unlatched positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a prior art latch is used to hold the lid on the tank, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability is insufficient and the lid can become inadvertently unlatched
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is divided into two separate pieces: a stationary part that is secured into an opening on the lid, and a pivoting latch that moves between latched and unlatched positions. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The latch transitions from a static prior art design to a dynamic mechanism where the latch pivots about an edge to move between positions. The deflectable arm on the latch provides dynamic engagement with the latching surface, allowing the lid to be securely held when closed but easily opened when needed
2Reliability
If a more secure latch mechanism is implemented, then the reliability improves, but the ease of operation may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A deflectable arm is introduced as an intermediary element between the latch and the latching surface. This arm can be deflected to allow easy movement of the latch between positions, while still providing secure engagement when in the latched position. The tab on the latch serves as a user interface that leverages this intermediary mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement between the deflectable arm and the latching surface changes parameters during operation. When the latch is moved, the deflectable arm deflects to change its engagement state, allowing smooth transition between latched and unlatched positions while maintaining security when closed
3Reliability
If a new latch mechanism with multiple components is used, then the reliability improves, but the ease of manufacture increases in difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system is segmented into two main pieces that can be manufactured separately using conventional processes. The stationary part is secured into an existing opening on the lid, while the pivoting latch is a separate component that attaches to the tank, allowing each to be optimized for manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is designed to work with conventional vacuum cleaner lids that have standard openings. The stationary part fits into existing lid openings, and the pivoting latch attaches to the tank, making the system compatible with conventional designs while providing improved reliability
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 new latch mechanism provides a more secure closure than prior art latches, preventing accidental opening and allowing easy user operation, while being inexpensive and intuitive to manufacture and install.
Implementation Method 1
A terminal side of the deflectable arm on the latch encounters the extended portion of the latching surface, and the terminal portion of the deflectable arm is deflected away from the pivot axis. After clearing the extended portion, the terminal portion subsequently deflects back, creating an interference fit between the terminal portion of the deflectable arm and the latching portion of the latching surface.
Data Source
AI summary
A latch mechanism has two pieces that mount in an opening on the lid of a conventional vacuum cleaner. A stationary part is held in place by a hooked end that fits over a pivot edge on the lid, and by a retaining surface that engages a retaining edge on the lid. The other part is a pivoting latch that hooks onto the same pivot edge. In a latched position, an engagement surface on a deflectable arm fits over a latching surface on the stationary part, holding a moving part in position with a latching part beneath a bead on the tank. A tab surface can be used to force the deflectable arm to deflect over the latching part and simultaneously move the latching part clear of the bead.