Automatic squeegee assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Window cleaning is laborious and often results in streaked windows due to the need to manage cleaning solution and wiping simultaneously, and is particularly challenging for individuals with mobility or pain issues, who may struggle with reaching high areas.
Innovation Solution
An automatic squeegee assembly with an energy storage system, a squeegee arm assembly, and a fluid dispensing mechanism that allows for hands-free operation, including a handle with a user interface to control the cleaning fluid pump and extendable squeegee head for efficient cleaning of windows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual window cleaning is performed using paper towels or cloths, then cleaning can be done with simple tools, but the windows become streaked and the process is laborious
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical wiping with an automated squeegee mechanism that uses motorized motion to remove cleaning solution. The squeegee assembly with rubber blade automatically traverses the window surface, eliminating the need for manual paper towel or cloth wiping while preventing streaks through consistent pressure and motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs self-service by automatically dispensing cleaning solution through fluid containers and pumps, then automatically squeegeeing the windows. The system manages its own cleaning fluid supply and application without requiring manual intervention for both spraying and wiping operations.
2Ease of operation
If manual window cleaning is performed, then the user can control the cleaning process, but the user must simultaneously manage cleaning solution and wiping, resulting in streaked windows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cleaning solution dispensing function and the squeegee wiping function into a single integrated device. The fluid containers, pumps, and squeegee mechanism are combined in one unit, allowing the user to control both functions through a single interface rather than coordinating separate spray and wipe actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual coordination of spraying and wiping is replaced by an automated control system that sequences the dispensing and squeegeeing operations. The motorized squeegee mechanism automatically follows the applied cleaning solution, eliminating the need for manual timing and coordination between multiple hand actions.
3Ease of operation
If traditional window cleaning is performed, then no additional equipment is needed, but individuals with limited mobility or pain conditions cannot thoroughly clean windows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the need for manual reaching and stretching with motorized robotic movement. The device autonomously navigates to windows, positions itself, and performs cleaning operations without requiring the user to physically reach high or difficult-to-access areas. This substitution enables individuals with mobility limitations to clean windows they previously could not reach.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs self-service by autonomously navigating, positioning, and executing cleaning operations without requiring manual manipulation. The automated system handles all physical aspects of window cleaning, allowing users with mobility issues to operate the device through simple controls while the device itself performs the physically demanding tasks of reaching and cleaning.
4Ease of operation
If manual window cleaning is performed, then the process is simple, but it requires standing on step stools or ladders to reach high windows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual climbing and reaching with motorized robotic movement. The device autonomously navigates to windows at any height, positions itself using automated mechanisms, and performs cleaning operations without requiring the user to stand on ladders or step stools. This substitution eliminates the safety hazards associated with ladder use while maintaining the ability to clean high windows.
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 automatic squeegee assembly enables efficient and streak-free window cleaning by automating the fluid dispensing and squeegee motion, reducing user effort and improving accessibility for individuals with mobility or pain issues.
Implementation Method 1
a cleaning fluid pump fluidly coupled to the fluid container and configured to dispense the cleaning fluid
Implementation Method 2
an axial extender electrically coupled to the energy storage, the axial extender configured to extend the squeegee head horizontally from the main body
Implementation Method 3
a longitudinal extender electrically coupled to the energy storage, the longitudinal extender configured to swipe the squeegee blade across a flat surface
Data Source
AI summary
The automatic squeegee assembly includes an energy storage charger, a main body configured as a housing, and a squeegee arm assembly coupled to the main body. The main body includes a base configured to rest upon a substantially horizontal surface, an energy storage, an energy storage charger port electrically coupled to the energy storage, and configured to electrically couple to the energy storage charger, a fluid container removably coupled to the main body, the fluid container configured for refillably containing a cleaning fluid, a cleaning fluid pump fluidly coupled to the fluid container and configured to dispense the cleaning fluid, a handle including a user interface configured to operate the cleaning fluid pump, and an access port configured secure and to allow removal of the fluid container.