Cleaner Tank Latch Assembly for Secure Seating and Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surface cleaning devices, such as carpet extractors, often face challenges in providing a convenient and efficient method for mounting and securing supply and recovery tanks, leading to user error and mis-assembly during operation.
Innovation Solution
A surface cleaning apparatus with a housing that includes a supply tank receiver and a recovery tank receiver, featuring a latch mechanism that biases into an extended position for secure tank mounting, ensuring correct installation and improved sealing, while allowing easy removal and transport of the tanks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a latch mechanism is added to secure the supply tank, then the reliability of tank mounting is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch member is spring-biased to automatically engage with the tank when inserted into the receiver, eliminating the need for manual securing operations. The spring automatically returns the latch to its engaged position, providing self-securing functionality that improves reliability without requiring complex user interaction
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is designed as a separate, removable component integrated into the receiver assembly, allowing it to be independently manufactured, assembled, and maintained. This modular approach reduces overall device complexity while providing reliable tank securing through a dedicated specialized component
2Reliability
If the latch member is extended into the void for secure mounting, then the reliability of tank securing is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to potential user error
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism provides tactile feedback through the spring-biased engagement, giving users clear sensory confirmation when the tank is properly secured. The mechanical engagement of the latch member with the tank creates a distinct tactile signal that confirms correct installation, eliminating uncertainty and reducing user error
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-biased latch member is pre-positioned in a retracted state that guides the tank into proper alignment during insertion. The preliminary positioning of the latch creates a self-aligning effect that facilitates correct tank installation before the final securing engagement occurs
3Shape
If the supply tank latch is hidden when the tank is seated, then the appearance and cleanliness of the device is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates as users cannot easily locate the latch
Solution Approach 1:
The hidden latch mechanism utilizes material contrast or color differentiation between the latch components and the receiver housing to provide visual cues. This allows the latch to remain aesthetically concealed while still being locatable through subtle visual indicators that do not compromise the clean appearance of the device
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
Facilitates correct and secure mounting of supply and recovery tanks, reducing user error and enhancing operational efficiency by providing tactile feedback for proper seating and improved sealing, thus ensuring effective fluid delivery and extraction processes.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member configured to bias the latch member into the extended position
Data Source
AI summary
A surface cleaning apparatus includes a housing, a fluid delivery system including a supply tank removably mounted on the housing and a fluid distributor, a fluid recovery system having a recovery tank removably mounted on the housing, an extraction nozzle, a motor/fan assembly, and a supply tank receiver provided on the housing for receiving the supply tank and comprising a void at least partially defining a seat for the supply tank.