Cleaning support device and method of use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cleaning tilt-in windows is cumbersome and inefficient due to the weight and orientation of the windows, which requires additional support and makes it difficult for users to access cleaning products and tools safely and effectively.
Innovation Solution
A support device with rotational, pivoting, or orientation-adjustment features that can be configured to support tilt-in windows and provide access to cleaning products, featuring cushioned surfaces, telescopic legs, and storage options for cleaning supplies, allowing users to clean windows safely and efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If tilt-in windows are opened inward for cleaning, then the windows can be accessed for cleaning, but the weight of the sashes becomes difficult to support and creates safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The support device acts as an intermediary between the user and the heavy window sashes. It provides a stable platform with cushioned surfaces that bear the weight of the sashes, allowing users to clean windows without directly supporting the heavy moving parts. The device includes features like a base, legs, and support surfaces that distribute and hold the window weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device is designed to be self-stabilizing with features like telescopic legs that can be adjusted to provide stable support without continuous user intervention. Once positioned, the device maintains the window sashes in a cleanable position autonomously, reducing the physical burden on the user.
2Productivity
If both upper and lower sashes are opened inward simultaneously, then both windows can be cleaned, but the combined weight strains the joints and creates instability
Solution Approach 1:
The support device provides counterbalancing support for heavy window sashes. The sturdy base and adjustable legs create a stable foundation that counteracts the weight of one or two sashes held in the open position. The device distributes the load across its structure rather than concentrating it at the window joints, preventing strain and instability.
3Ease of operation
If the support device includes storage for cleaning products, then access to tools is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support device is segmented into functional modules: a base structure for support, telescopic legs for positioning, and attachable storage components like shelves and hooks. This segmentation allows the storage features to be added as separate, simple elements rather than integrating complex storage mechanisms into the core support structure, maintaining ease of manufacture while improving accessibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A support device and associated method of use may be used for supporting a surface to be cleaned, such as a tilt-in window, and associated cleaning supplies. The support device may include at least one protective support feature or surface, such as a top cushion. The support device may also include at least one support feature for supplies, such as an attachment ring and/or a bag or other supply receptacle. The support device may include a plurality of legs, such as two front legs and two back legs, and the legs may be foldable or compressible for moving or storage of the support device. Pairings of legs may further include locking features or other support arms or similar features. The support device may be configured to support one or more elements of a tilt-in window when those elements are in an open configuration, enabling easier cleaning of the window.