Vacuum Cleaner Nozzle Connector Release Without Bending Down
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vacuum cleaner nozzles are difficult to use effectively for disconnecting the vacuum cleaner tube without requiring users to bend down and manually manipulate the nozzle on the floor.
Innovation Solution
A connector socket release mechanism with a locking member and lever system that allows the vacuum cleaner tube to be released by moving it to a second position, eliminating the need for users to bend down, featuring a spring-biased lever and a push button for alternative release, and a non-circular inner tubular opening to prevent rotation and enhance the locking mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the connector socket is pivotally connected to allow the tube to project at different angles, then cleaning versatility is improved, but the mechanism becomes more complex and harder to operate for disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a locking member with lever arm, a pivot joint, and a connector socket. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall operation while maintaining versatility. The locking member can be actuated separately from the pivot joint, enabling easy disconnection without affecting the angular positioning capability.
2Reliability
If a locking member is inserted into the tubular opening to retain the vacuum cleaner tube, then connection reliability is improved, but the disconnection operation becomes more difficult requiring users to bend down
Solution Approach 1:
The lever arm acts as an intermediary between the user's hand and the locking member. By providing a lever arm that extends from the locking member, the mechanism allows users to actuate the locking member from a higher, more accessible position rather than reaching down to the connector socket. This intermediary lever arm transforms the disconnection operation into a simpler, more ergonomic action.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves the actuation point of the locking mechanism from the horizontal plane (at the connector socket level on the floor) to the vertical dimension (higher up where the lever arm reaches). This dimensional change allows users to operate the release mechanism from a more convenient height, eliminating the need to bend down while maintaining secure connection through the locking member.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the inner tubular opening is non-circular in cross section to prevent rotation, then connection stability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The inner tubular opening is designed with a non-circular, asymmetric cross-section that corresponds to the shape of the vacuum cleaner tube. This asymmetric geometry prevents rotation by creating a unique fit between the tube and opening, ensuring stable connection without requiring high manufacturing precision. The asymmetric shape naturally guides the tube into the correct orientation during insertion.
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
Enables easy and reliable disconnection of the vacuum cleaner tube without requiring users to bend down, improving user convenience and ease of use by allowing the tube to be released simply by moving it to an upright position.
Implementation Method 1
The lever may be made in one piece, typically by injection molding, and the release mechanism may be biased by a spring towards the first position.
Data Source
AI summary
A vacuum cleaner nozzle, having a connector socket, pivotally connected to the nozzle by a joint. The connector socket has an inner tubular opening configured to receive a vacuum cleaner tube. A connector socket release mechanism, has a locking member, moveable between a first position, where it is inserted in the tubular opening of the connector socket in order to retain the vacuum cleaner tube therein, and a second position, where it is forced out of the tubular opening by a movement in the joint, in order to release the vacuum cleaner tube.