Automated cleaning method and apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional cleaning methods and apparatuses apply the same chemicals to all articles and soils, regardless of type, leading to inefficiencies, potential damage, and wastage, as they do not account for the specific article or soil type during the cleaning process.
Innovation Solution
An automated cleaning method and apparatus that identifies the article and soil type, allowing for the direct application of concentrated products at specific dispensing points, tailored to the type and location of soiling, optimizing the dispensing sequence and reducing chemical usage by applying chemicals only to soiled surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the same chemicals are used for all articles and soils, then the cleaning process is simple and uniform, but cleaning effectiveness is reduced and article damage may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the cleaning process by dividing articles into different types (e.g., glassware, china, silverware, plastics) and applying specific cleaning chemicals tailored to each type. The system uses sensors to identify article types and automatically selects appropriate chemicals from multiple dispensing points, rather than using a single uniform chemical solution for all articles.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies local quality by dispensing different chemicals at different locations and times based on the specific article type detected. Each article type receives a customized chemical treatment at the appropriate dispensing point along the conveyor, ensuring optimal cleaning effectiveness for each material while preventing damage from inappropriate chemicals.
2Loss of substance
If concentrated product is directly applied onto the article, then chemical usage is optimized, but precise control of product dispensing is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs sensors that automatically detect article types and trigger the dispensing of appropriate chemicals without human intervention. The automated control system monitors the conveyor belt, identifies articles, and activates the correct dispensing points to apply concentrated chemicals directly onto the articles as they pass through, optimizing chemical usage while maintaining precise control.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention incorporates feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor the conveyor belt for article types and provide real-time information to the control system. Based on this feedback, the system automatically adjusts which chemicals are dispensed and at what rates, ensuring precise control over product application while minimizing chemical waste.
3Productivity
If article type identification is implemented, then chemical dispensing can be optimized, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces manual article identification and chemical selection with an automated optical or sensor-based identification system. Sensors detect article types on the conveyor belt and automatically trigger the appropriate chemical dispensing sequences, eliminating the need for manual intervention while optimizing cleaning cycles for different article types.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a multi-functional identification and control mechanism that can recognize multiple article types (glassware, china, silverware, plastics) and automatically select from multiple chemical options. This universal system handles diverse article types through a single integrated control platform, managing complexity through consolidation rather than multiplication of separate systems.
Data Source
AI summary
An automated method and apparatus for cleaning articles by direct application of concentrated product to a soiled surface of the article is disclosed. The article type is identified and a product dispensing sequence is activated to control the type of product dispensed onto the articles based on the article type and/or soil type on the article. Product, duration, and other parameters are tailored according to the article type and/or soil type during each sequence of the wash cycle. Product, wash and rinse liquids are applied at specific locations and from specific directions from within the cleaning apparatus based upon the article type and/or soil type on the article.