Cleaning Plenum Airflow Layout for Faster Surface Drying
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Upright extraction cleaning machines leave surfaces wet for extended periods, causing interruptions in activities due to slow drying times, as existing solutions do not effectively expedite the drying process.
Innovation Solution
A portable cleaning apparatus with a suction nozzle and a blower assembly that separates and pressurizes air, exhausting it through a plenum to dry the surface efficiently, either heated or unheated, and can be used independently to dry surfaces after cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional extraction cleaning machines are used to remove dirt from surfaces, then dirt removal is achieved, but the surface remains wet for extended periods causing activity interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the extraction cleaning function with a drying function in a single integrated system. The cleaning machine includes both a suction nozzle for removing dirt and a plenum with air outlets for drying the surface, allowing both functions to be performed sequentially without requiring separate equipment or causing extended interruptions.
Solution Approach 2:
The drying function is integrated into the cleaning process by using the same machine base and handle assembly. After cleaning, the plenum delivers air flow to the surface to continue the useful action of preparing the surface for use, eliminating idle time between cleaning and drying operations.
2Loss of energy
If drying time is extended to allow surfaces to dry naturally, then energy consumption is reduced, but productivity and surface availability are significantly reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses its own operational resources to perform drying. The plenum is integrated into the existing machine structure and uses the machine's movement and operational flow to deliver drying air, eliminating the need for separate high-energy drying equipment while maintaining productivity.
3Loss of time
If a plenum and air outlet system is added to enable drying, then drying speed is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plenum structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the handle assembly, creates air flow channels for drying, and integrates with the existing cleaning mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
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 solution significantly reduces drying time, allowing surfaces to be used sooner and minimizing interruptions by accelerating moisture removal through high-velocity airflow, which can be directed and controlled for optimal drying.
Implementation Method 1
The suction nozzle includes an opening located within the base module housing for extraction of air and liquid from a surface
Implementation Method 2
exhausting the pressurized air through the exhaust outlet into the plenum, thence through the plenum outlet opening in a second direction transverse to the first direction along the surface away from the base module
Data Source
AI summary
A portable cleaning apparatus comprises a base module for movement along a surface and a plenum. The base module comprises a base housing enclosing a fan for moving air through the housing from the interior of the housing to the exterior of the housing through an exhaust outlet in the housing. The plenum fluidly communicates at one end with the exhaust outlet and at another end with at least one plenum outlet opening adjacent the surface to direct air exhausted from the housing interior along the surface.