Cleanroom Mop Head Snap-Fit Design for Low-Particle Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mopping systems face issues with complex clamping systems, corrosion, and premature failure of threaded attachments, particularly in cleanroom environments where low particle contamination is required.
Innovation Solution
A mop system with an autoclavable mop head that uses a snap-on, pressure fit attachment to a planar frame, incorporating a block of absorbent cellular foam with a non-snagging fabric layer and a raised profile contoured attachment plate for secure engagement, allowing for easy attachment and detachment without complex mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex clamping systems or threaded fasteners are used to attach mop heads, then secure connection is achieved, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases due to corrosion and premature failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical attachment systems (clamps, screws, threaded fasteners) with a simple pressure-fit interface. The mop head features a substantially planar attachment surface that directly contacts a corresponding planar surface on the mop frame, secured by simple peripheral engagement elements rather than complex mechanical fastening systems. This substitution eliminates corrosion issues and mechanical failure points while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and removes the complex clamping and threaded fastening components from the attachment system. By eliminating these intermediate mechanical elements, the design achieves direct surface-to-surface contact between the mop head and frame, reducing the number of parts and potential failure points while simplifying the overall attachment mechanism.
2Strength
If solid surface connection plates are used with foam refills, then secure attachment is achieved, but device complexity increases due to complex attachment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a substantially planar attachment plate with a surface area of at least 30 square inches that provides direct contact with the mop frame. This large, flat surface distributes attachment forces evenly across the frame, achieving strong mechanical bonding without requiring complex fastening mechanisms. The planar surface acts as a stable interface between the foam refill and the frame structure.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If traditional mop heads are used in cleanroom environments, then cleaning function is provided, but particle contamination increases due to material degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies that the attachment plate and surrounding structures be made of autoclavable materials, changing the material parameter to withstand sterilization processes. This allows the mop head components to be repeatedly autoclaved without degradation, eliminating particle contamination from material breakdown while maintaining structural integrity and durability in cleanroom environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows the foam refill portion to be replaced independently when worn or contaminated, while the durable autoclavable attachment plate and frame structures are retained and sterilized. This selective replacement strategy reduces overall contamination risk while being economically efficient.
Data Source
AI summary
A mop system for cleanroom use incorporating an autoclavable mop head adapted for snap-on, pressure fit attachment to a frame member having a pair of substantially planar free end portions. The mop head incorporates raised profile insert elements engaging free end portions of the frame member. The mop head is also optionally adapted to retain a dusting cloth or other web structure in removable relation across its surface.