Cleaning Trolley Module Coupling for Compact Multi-Size Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning trolleys are not compact or space-efficient, as their design is limited by the size of the modules they carry, and they often protrude beyond the boundary of the base, leading to instability and inefficiency in carrying modules of different sizes.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning trolley with a framework-like base body and seat stays that allows modules to be coupled in a form-fitting, frictional, or force-fitting manner, enabling stable transport of modules of varying sizes by protruding beyond the base body's boundary, with recesses and leg elements providing support and preventing tipping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If modules are made larger to accommodate different sizes, then the cleaning trolley can carry more capacity, but the compactness and space efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by allowing smaller modules to be placed inside larger modules during transport. The base body includes recesses that accommodate modules, and modules can be nested within each other when not in use, significantly reducing the space required on the cleaning trolley while maintaining the capability to carry multiple modules of different sizes when needed.
2Area of stationary object
If modules protrude beyond the base body boundary, then the base area can be reduced, but the stability against tipping deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the stability issue by transitioning from a two-dimensional base support problem to a three-dimensional solution. Modules are supported not only by the base body area but also by vertical recesses and lateral constraints that extend the support into the third dimension. This allows modules to protrude beyond the base boundary while maintaining stability through multi-dimensional geometric constraints including recesses that engage with module features.
3Volume of moving object
If the base body is made compact, then space efficiency improves, but the ability to accommodate modules of different sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The base body is designed with universal recesses that can accommodate modules of various sizes and configurations. The recesses are geometrically configured to adapt to different module dimensions, allowing a single compact base body design to serve multiple functions and accommodate diverse module types without requiring size-specific base configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The compact base body achieves versatility through nesting capabilities where smaller modules fit within larger ones, and all modules engage with the base body recesses. This nested arrangement allows the compact base to carry multiple modules of different sizes by utilizing vertical space and internal volume rather than requiring proportional horizontal expansion.
4Stability of the object's composition
If modules are secured with form-fitting and force-fitting connections, then stability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing form-fitting and force-fitting connections at specific critical locations within the recesses rather than throughout the entire module-base interface. The recesses are strategically shaped to engage with specific features on the modules, providing stable connection only where geometrically necessary, thereby achieving stability without requiring complex connection mechanisms across the entire structure.
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 the compact and space-saving transport of multiple modules of different sizes, ensuring stability and preventing liquid leakage between modules through complementary design, allowing for ergonomic orientation and efficient cleaning operations.
Implementation Method 1
the module (3) is assigned to the base body (1) in such a form-fitting, frictional and/or force-fitting manner that it is stable against tipping
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
A cleaning cart, comprising a basic body (1), wherein the lateral extent of the basic body (1) is bounded by an outer circumferential boundary surface (2) or boundary line, and wherein the basic body (1) bears at least one module (3, 6) which is coupleable to the basic body (1), is characterized, with regard to the problem of refining and developing a cleaning cart of the type mentioned at the beginning in such a manner that said cleaning cart can bear a multiplicity of modules of different size while having a very compact and space-saving design, in that the module (3, 6) is assigned to the basic body (1) in such a positive, frictional and/or non-positive manner preventing tilting that the base region of the module (3, 6) projects at least on one side beyond the boundary surface (2) or boundary line of the basic body (1).