Cleaning Product Compliance System Using Segmented Labels

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Solution Overview

Problem

Training cleaning professionals in the proper and safe use of janitorial and cleaning products is challenging due to the complexity of various products, language barriers, and lack of intuitive usage, leading to safety concerns, inefficiency, and suboptimal cleaning results.

Innovation Solution

A compliance system featuring specially configured labels with step-by-step instructions, icons, and written indicia, complemented by online training materials, including brochures, posters, product information sheets, webpages, and videos, to guide users in the recommended use of janitorial and cleaning products.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional product labels and training methods are used, then product information is provided to users, but user compliance and proper usage remain low at 20%

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompliance with product usageVSAvoidintuitiveness of product use
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The label information is segmented into discrete, numbered steps (1, 2, 3, etc.) that guide users through the cleaning process sequentially. Each step is visually distinct and easy to follow, breaking down complex procedures into manageable actions that improve user compliance and understanding.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The label system utilizes color-coded icons and visual indicators to represent different steps and information types. Colors provide quick visual cues that help users understand product usage without reading extensive text, making the process more intuitive and accessible to users with varying language skills and education levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

2Reliability

If comprehensive training materials are provided, then user knowledge increases, but training time and resources increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproper product usageVSAvoidtraining duration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Training materials are made available in advance through the website, allowing users to access information before needing to use the products. The label system also provides immediate reference guidance at the point of use, eliminating the need for lengthy training sessions and enabling users to learn at their own pace before implementation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The label design serves as a simplified copy or summary of comprehensive training materials. Key information is replicated on the label in condensed form, allowing users to reference essential guidance without accessing full training documentation, thus reducing training time while maintaining proper usage standards.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Manufacturing precision

If detailed instructions are provided on labels, then product usage accuracy improves, but label complexity and information overload increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveusage accuracyVSAvoidlabel complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Detailed instructions are segmented into numbered steps with clear visual separators. Each step contains only the essential action required, avoiding information overload while maintaining accuracy. The segmentation allows users to process information in small, manageable units rather than confronting a wall of text.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Visual icons and color coding are used to convey information that would otherwise require extensive text. Different colors indicate different types of actions or warnings, allowing users to quickly grasp key points without reading detailed explanations, thus reducing label complexity while preserving usage accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

Data Source

PatentUS20190304330A1Compliance system for use with janitorial and cleaning products
Publication Date: 2019.10.03 MIDLAB INC
  • US20190304330A1 patent drawing
  • US20190304330A1 patent drawing
  • US20190304330A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method for training and guiding cleaning professionals in the use of janitorial and cleaning products, includes specifically configured labels for the products and a variety of visual and other support materials provided via a website that are configured to facilitate training of the end user. The support materials are complementary to the labels so that after the end user has been trained using the visual support materials, the labels reinforce the training and provide on-site reminders of proper and effective use of the products.