Cleaning device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automatic scrubber/suction cleaning devices require unidirectional operation, making them difficult to use in spatially restricted environments and increasing handling effort, as they need to follow a specific sequence of steps for cleaning, supplying fluid, mechanical processing, and suctioning, limiting their usability.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning device with a pivotable handle and movable lip elements that allow operation in both directions, featuring rotatable cleaning rollers and dual suction gutters with a switching mechanism to direct suction pressure, enabling fluid suction at the rear during both forward and backward movements without user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the cleaning device is configured as an automatic scrubber/suction apparatus with a single suction gutter, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the device can only be operated in a single direction, increasing handling effort in spatially restricted environments
Solution Approach 1:
The single suction gutter is divided into two separate suction gutters (first suction gutter and second suction gutter), each capable of being independently positioned. This segmentation allows the device to be operated in both forward and backward directions without increasing overall structural complexity, as each suction gutter can be independently raised or lowered based on the direction of movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The suction gutters are made dynamically adjustable through the lever mechanism that can pivot between different positions. The lever can switch between engaging with the first lever element (raising first suction gutter) and the second lever element (raising second suction gutter), allowing the device to adapt its configuration based on the direction of movement, thereby reducing handling effort in restricted spaces.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the cleaning device requires a specific sequence of cleaning steps (fluid supply, mechanical cleaning, suctioning), then the cleaning process is systematic and effective, but the device must be operated unidirectionally, limiting usability in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The lever mechanism provides dynamic switching capability that allows the device to maintain the systematic cleaning sequence while adapting to bidirectional operation. When moving forward, the lever positions the first suction gutter for suctioning; when moving backward, the lever switches to position the second suction gutter, ensuring the cleaning sequence remains effective regardless of direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The single lever mechanism serves multiple functions: it can engage with either the first lever element or the second lever element depending on the direction of movement. This multi-functionality allows the device to maintain systematic cleaning effectiveness while gaining the versatility to operate in both forward and backward directions, reducing handling effort in confined spaces.
3Use of energy by moving object
If both suction gutters are always subjected to negative pressure, then suctioning is effective in both directions, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuously applying negative pressure to both suction gutters, the system uses periodic action where only the actively used suction gutter (based on movement direction) is subjected to negative pressure. The lever mechanism switches between engaging with the first or second lever element, and correspondingly, the suction pump activates only the relevant suction gutter, reducing energy consumption while maintaining effective suctioning throughout the cleaning process.
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 efficient and effortless operation in both directions, reducing handling effort and energy consumption by automatically switching suction gutters and rollers, allowing effective cleaning in confined spaces without the need for sequential directional movement.
Implementation Method 1
a first suction gutter (30) which can be subjected to negative pressure by means of a suction pump (44) and through which fluid can be suctioned off
Implementation Method 2
The suction gutters (30, 32) and the cleaning rollers (16, 18) can each be spring-loaded into a raised position by means of spring elements (52, 54)
Implementation Method 3
at least one rotatable cleaning roller (16, 18)
Data Source
AI summary
A cleaning device includes a handle and a cleaning head which is movable on a surface to be cleaned. The cleaning head has at least one rotatable cleaning roller and a first lip element arranged adjacent to a first suction gutter which can be subjected to negative pressure by a suction pump, and the cleaning head has a second lip element arranged adjacent to a second suction gutter which can be subjected to negative pressure by the suction pump. The first and second lip elements may each be movable, and the handle may be pivoted to move the lip elements.