Back-of-Hand Windshield Cleaner for Angled Interior Glass

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing window cleaning devices are inefficient for cleaning angular surfaces like vehicle windshields due to awkward hand positions required for wiping motions, making it difficult to apply pressure effectively.

Innovation Solution

A cleaning device that attaches to the backside of the user's hand, featuring a cushioned base with adjustable straps and a removable cleaning pad with Velcro attachment, allowing for comfortable grip and easy pressure application on angled surfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional window cleaning devices are used on angular surfaces like windshields, then the cleaning function is limited, but the device structure remains simple

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning capability on angular surfacesVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cleaning device inverts the traditional hand positioning by attaching the cleaning pad to the back of the hand rather than the palm side. This inversion allows the user to apply pressure naturally with the back of the hand while maintaining proper wiping motion on angular surfaces like windshields, thereby improving adaptability without significantly increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The device transitions from a two-dimensional flat cleaning surface to a three-dimensional contoured design that conforms to angular surfaces. The cleaning pad and base structure are shaped to match the curvature and angles of windshield surfaces, enabling effective cleaning on non-planar surfaces while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the cleaning device is designed to fit into crevices and small areas, then the cleaning accessibility is improved, but the device thickness increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessibility to crevicesVSAvoiddevice thickness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The cleaning device applies local quality by varying the thickness of the base and cushion in different regions. The base is thinner at the edges and thicker toward the center, allowing the device to fit into crevices and small areas while maintaining sufficient thickness in the center for structural integrity and cushioning comfort

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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

Enables easier and more effective cleaning of angled surfaces by allowing users to apply pressure with the back of their hand, improving comfort and accessibility, especially in tight spaces, and facilitating easy replacement of cleaning pads.

Implementation Method 1

At least one side of the cleaning pad is made of a material that attaches to a hook closure means used in hook and loop closures such as Velcro.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVelcro: Velcro

Data Source

PatentUS7653961B2Glass cleaning device
Publication Date: 2010.02.02 PROBASCO TIMOTHY PAUL
  • US7653961B2 patent drawing
  • US7653961B2 patent drawing
  • US7653961B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device for cleaning vehicle windshields assists in placing the user's hand in a favorable position to more easily clean the inside of a windshield with a wiping motion. The device includes a base having a padded member attached to its bottom side. A cleaning member is removably attached to the top side of the base. The device has straps that encircle the base and the padded member. The user's hand is placed through the straps such that the top side of the user's hand is against the bottom of the padded member. The user positions their hand to place the top side of the cleaning member against the windshield moving their hand in a wiping motion.