Arm-Mounted Cleaning Device With Selective Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cleaning bottles are cumbersome and require users to hold them with one hand, limiting the ability to perform other tasks as they consume the entire function of the hand, leading to inefficiencies in cleaning processes.
Innovation Solution
A handheld cleaning device that attaches to the user's arm, allowing selective dispensing of cleaning solutions through a nozzle activated by a user interface, enabling hands-free operation and interchangeable cartridges for different cleaning solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional spray bottle is used to dispense cleaning solution, then the cleaning product can be applied to surfaces, but the user's hand is consumed and cannot perform other tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device is extracted from the traditional handheld bottle format and repositioned to mount on the user's arm. The dispensing mechanism is separated from hand control, with the activator positioned on the arm-mounted device rather than requiring hand grasping. This extraction of the dispensing function from hand operation allows the hand to remain free for other tasks while eliminating the repeated picking up and putting down of the bottle.
Solution Approach 2:
The arm acts as an intermediary between the user and the cleaning solution dispensing system. By mounting the device on the arm rather than requiring hand holding, the system mediates the interaction between the user and the cleaning product. The activator on the arm provides a new interface that doesn't consume the hand, allowing continuous operation without releasing the device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional spray bottle is held in hand for dispensing, then cleaning solution can be controlled and sprayed, but the device becomes cumbersome and must be carried on cart or pocket
Solution Approach 1:
The arm-mounted device provides multiple functions: it serves as both a cleaning solution dispenser and a hands-free carrier. The device can be mounted on either arm, providing versatility in positioning. The same arm-mounted structure that enables hands-free operation also provides portable carrying, eliminating the need for separate carts or pockets. The activator system works whether the device is on the left or right arm.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from hand-based control to arm-based mounting, changing the dimensional relationship between user and device. Instead of the device being held in the hand (proximal control), the device is mounted on the arm (distal positioning with proximal activation). This dimensional change allows the device to be positioned away from the hand while still being easily accessible and controllable.
3Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable cleaning cartridges are implemented, then versatility of cleaning solutions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system is segmented into separate components: the main arm-mounted device housing and interchangeable cartridges containing cleaning solutions. Each cartridge is a self-contained unit that can be independently replaced. This segmentation allows users to swap between different cleaning solutions (e.g., glass cleaner, all-purpose cleaner, disinfectant) without replacing the entire device, providing versatility while keeping the base unit simple and reusable.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge system allows used cleaning solution containers to be discarded while recovering and reusing the main device housing, activator mechanism, and mounting structure. Users can exchange depleted cartridges for fresh ones, maintaining continuous operation without discarding the entire cleaning device. This approach reduces waste and provides economic benefits while maintaining versatility through multiple cartridge options.
Data Source
AI summary
A cleaning device includes a cartridge assembly, a hose/tubing, a nozzle, and an activator. The cartridge assembly includes at least one cartridge configured to hold a liquid solution. An attachment device is coupled to the cartridge assembly and is configured to secure the position of the cartridge assembly to a user's arm adjacent the hand. A pump is located within the cleaning device and is located between cartridge and the nozzle, such that pump regulates dispensing of the liquid solution. The nozzle is in communication with the pump and acts as a diffuser to adjust the stream of the liquid solution passed through the hose from pump. The activator is in communication with the pump such that operation of the activator selectively releases a volume of the liquid solution from the cartridge so as to pass through the nozzle. A control unit and interface are permitted.