Valve assembly modules for central vacuum systems, kit for a valve assembly module for a central vacuum system and method of installing a valve assembly into a casing assembly of a central vacuum system.
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional central vacuum systems require the use of handheld tools and fasteners for assembly and disassembly of casing and valve assemblies, making installation and maintenance tedious and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly module for central vacuum systems that allows for tool-free and fastener-free assembly and disassembly, utilizing components like a deformable cylindrical member, compression ring, pull bar, lock cage, and lock plate, which engage through slots, tabs, and snap-fit mechanisms to secure the parts without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fasteners (nuts, bolts) are used to assemble casing and valve assemblies, then the connection strength and reliability are improved, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes tedious and time-consuming requiring handheld tools
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly is divided into modular components (valve body, seal, actuator) that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each component has standardized interfaces that enable tool-free connection while maintaining structural integrity through precision-machined mating surfaces and snap-fit mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical fasteners (nuts, bolts, screws) are replaced with a snap-fit engagement system using elastomeric seals and spring-loaded actuators. The seal comprises an elastomeric material that deforms to create a tight seal and mechanical interlock without requiring threaded fasteners, eliminating the need for handheld tools during assembly.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional fasteners are used to secure valve assembly parts, then the structural stability is improved, but the ease of operation during installation and maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly system is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing. The valve components feature guide rails and tapered surfaces that automatically align parts during insertion, while spring-loaded actuators and elastomeric seals automatically engage and secure the assembly without requiring manual tightening or tool assistance, making the process as easy as pushing components together.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism utilizes changes in material properties under compression. The elastomeric seal material deforms elastically when compressed between rigid components, transitioning from a flexible state during insertion to a locked state that maintains structural stability during operation, enabling both ease of assembly and structural integrity.
3Manufacturing precision
If precision fasteners are used to assemble valve components, then the manufacturing precision and fit quality are improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of assembly increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are integrated into single components. The elastomeric seal simultaneously provides sealing, mechanical interlocking, and alignment guidance. The spring-loaded actuator combines positioning, securing, and sealing activation functions. This merging reduces the number of separate precision parts and simplifies the assembly process while maintaining high fit quality through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap-fit connection system with elastomeric seals is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate various valve sizes and configurations. The same basic mechanism (compressed elastomeric material creating mechanical interlock) works across different applications, reducing the need for application-specific precision fasteners and simplifying assembly procedures through standardized multi-functional components.
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 easy installation, maintenance, and repair of central vacuum systems, reducing the time and effort required for assembly and disassembly without the need for tools or fasteners, ensuring a secure seal with the vacuum hose.
Implementation Method 1
axial pressure exerted on one or both of the upper and/or and lower conical portions of the deformable member will compress them together and cause the waistline portion to extend radially inwardly
Implementation Method 2
the waistline portion to extend radially inwardly, sealing around an end of a vacuum hose
Data Source
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AI summary
Outlet box for central vacuum systems comprising: a. a casing assembly (10) for receiving an end of a vacuum hose, the casing assembly having an input receptacle (12a) comprising at least one guide tab (171) on an interior surface thereof; b. a valve assembly (100), comprising: i. a hollow deformable cylindrical member (120) having an hourglass shape, the deformable member (120) having an upper circular surface for engagement with said input receptacle (12a), and a lower circular surface; and ii. a compression ring (130) comprising an upper circular surface with an adjacent annular flange (136) operable for engagement with the lower circular surface of said cylindrical member (120), and at least one elongated longitudinal slot (139) located on said outer surface for slidable engagement with said at least one guide tab (171) of said input receptacle. A method of installing a valve assembly into a casing assembly of a central vacuum system without the use of hand tools or fasteners and a kit for a valve assembly module for a central vacuum system are also disclosed.