Acidic Hard Surface Cleaner for Spray-and-Wipe Low-Temperature Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hard surface cleaning compositions require multiple steps, including scrubbing and rinsing, which are time-consuming and less appealing to consumers, and lack stability at low temperatures.

Innovation Solution

A hard surface cleaning composition comprising an alkyl polyglycoside and a secondary surfactant in a high weight ratio, with a pH of 2 to 6, that can be sprayed and wiped without rinsing, providing good shine and a pleasant odor, and is stable at low temperatures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional hard surface cleaning compositions are used, then deep cleaning can be achieved, but multiple steps (scrubbing, rinsing) are required which are time-consuming and less appealing to consumers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning efficiencyVSAvoidcleaning time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple cleaning functions into a single composition that simultaneously provides cleaning, shine, and freshening effects. The composition merges the roles of cleaner and polish into one product, eliminating the need for separate scrubbing and rinsing steps while achieving effective cleaning of bathroom surfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The cleaning composition is designed to perform multiple functions: it cleans dirt and grime, provides shine to surfaces, and leaves a fresh odor. This multi-functional approach allows one product to replace traditional multi-step cleaning routines, reducing time and effort required for effective bathroom cleaning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If traditional cleaning compositions are used, then cleaning power can be achieved, but they often fail to prevent dirt accumulation on bathroom surfaces effectively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning effectivenessVSAvoiddirt accumulation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The composition includes anti-redeposition agents that prevent dirt and grime from accumulating on surfaces after cleaning. This preliminary protective action creates a barrier that repels future dirt accumulation, extending the cleanliness of surfaces and reducing the frequency of required cleanings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the potential harm of dirt accumulation into a benefit by incorporating ingredients that actively prevent redeposition. The composition transforms the cleaning process from merely removing dirt temporarily to providing long-lasting protection against future dirt accumulation, making surfaces resistant to soiling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

3Manufacturing precision

If multiple cleaning steps are required, then thorough cleaning can be achieved, but the process becomes complex and less appealing to consumers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning qualityVSAvoidcleaning process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple cleaning steps into a single application step. The composition is formulated to deliver cleaning, polishing, and freshening effects simultaneously upon application, eliminating the need for separate scrubbing, rinsing, and drying steps while maintaining high cleaning quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The composition is designed to perform self-cleaning and self-polishing functions without requiring extensive manual intervention. The formulation enables the product to work effectively with minimal user effort, providing thorough cleaning through a simple spray-and-wipe application that reduces process complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Productivity

If conventional surfactant systems are used, then cleaning can be achieved, but stability at low temperatures is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning performanceVSAvoidlow temperature stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent modifies the chemical parameters of the surfactant system to enhance low-temperature stability. By selecting specific surfactants and adjusting their concentrations, the composition maintains its cleaning effectiveness and physical stability across a wide temperature range, including cold storage conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The composition uses a composite surfactant system combining multiple surfactant types that work synergistically. This composite approach provides both excellent cleaning performance and enhanced stability at low temperatures, as the different surfactant components complement each other's properties and compensate for temperature-related performance variations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

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 composition enables easy, effective cleaning with minimal effort, maintaining surface shine and odor, while being stable and reducing the need for scrubbing and rinsing, suitable for frequent use.

Implementation Method 1

The composition comprises a surfactant system comprising an alkyl polyglycoside and a secondary surfactant in a high weight ratio

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSurfactant: Surfactant

Implementation Method 2

The composition has a pH of from about 2 to about 6 as measured at 20° C.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcid dissolution: Oxidation

Data Source

PatentUS12624310B2Acidic hard surface cleaning composition
Publication Date: 2026.05.12 PROCTER & GAMBLE CO

AI summary

An acidic hard surface cleaning composition includes a surfactant system, a perfume, and water. The surfactant system includes a primary surfactant comprising an alkyl polyglycoside and a secondary surfactant. The primary and secondary surfactant are present in a weight ratio of at least about 3:1. The perfume and the surfactant system are present in a weight ratio of at least about 1:10, and the composition has a pH of from about 2 to about 6 as measured at 20° C.