Concrete Grinder Vacuum Modules for Wet and Dry Debris Collection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing concrete grinding and polishing processes require separate ancillary equipment for slurry or dust collection, which is inconvenient and complicates cleanup due to the need for hoses and connections that often get covered in slurry or dust.
Innovation Solution
A modular walk-behind grinder/polisher equipped with removably attachable debris collection modules for both slurry and dust, eliminating the need for separate equipment and connections by integrating a vacuum producer directly onto the machine frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate ancillary equipment is used for slurry or dust collection, then collection function is provided, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to need for hoses and connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the vacuum collection system directly with the grinder/polisher machine by mounting the vacuum producer on the machine frame and providing removable coupling mechanisms. This merging eliminates the need for separate ancillary equipment and complex hose connections, while maintaining both grinding and collection functions in a single integrated unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The grinder/polisher machine is designed to perform multiple functions: grinding/polishing and slurry or dust collection. The vacuum producer mounted on the frame provides collection capability, while the removable coupling mechanisms allow the same machine to adapt between different collection modes (slurry with water tank, dust with collection bag), enhancing versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate ancillary equipment is used for slurry or dust collection, then collection function is provided, but ease of operation worsens due to hoses and connections getting covered in slurry or dust
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the vacuum producer and collection systems directly onto the grinder/polisher frame, the patent eliminates external hoses and connections that would otherwise get covered in slurry or dust. The removable coupling mechanisms provide direct, clean interfaces that are easier to maintain and less prone to contamination.
3Ease of operation
If vacuum producer is integrated onto machine frame, then ease of operation improves by eliminating separate equipment, but device complexity improves in terms of integration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum collection system is designed as a modular unit with removable coupling mechanisms that can be attached or detached from the grinder/polisher frame. This segmentation allows for easy integration and disintegration, reducing the complexity burden while maintaining operational convenience during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanisms are designed to be removable and reconfigurable, allowing the vacuum system to be dynamically attached or detached based on operational needs. This dynamic capability simplifies the integrated structure by providing flexible connection points rather than permanent fixed installations.
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
Simplifies the grinding and polishing process by allowing seamless integration of slurry or dust collection, reducing cleanup complexity and enhancing operational convenience.
Implementation Method 1
vacuum producer mounted on the frame
Data Source
AI summary
A walk-behind grinder/polisher receives removably attachable wet and dry debris collection modules. These modules are substantially rigidly attached to the frame of the grinder/polisher and suspended above a floor surface so as to travel with the grinder/polisher when coupled thereto. Each debris collection module removably attaches to a vacuum producer mounted on the frame of the grinder/polisher. An engine drives a first hydrostatic pump in fluid communication with a first hydraulic motor driving the grinding/polishing head in reversible fashion. The engine further drives a second hydrostatic pump in fluid communication with a second hydraulic motor driving the vacuum producer. The dust collection module has an inlet removably attachable to the dust collection port on the shroud, and an outlet coupled to a dust collection canister. The slurry collection module has an inlet removably attachable to a squeegee, and an outlet coupled to a slurry containment vessel.