Conveyor Mobile Device Cleaning for Faster, Consistent Refurbishment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of cleaning and grading used mobile devices is complicated, time-consuming, and expensive due to the increasing complexity of these devices, necessitating improved automation and consistency in the cleaning process.
Innovation Solution
An in-line, conveyor-based robotic cleaning system using automated force control linear actuators, sprayers, blowers, and smudge removing rollers to clean the surfaces of mobile devices, with adjustable components to accommodate various device sizes and types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual cleaning by operators is used, then cleaning can be performed, but cleaning speed is slow and throughput is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical cleaning operations with an automated robotic system that uses conveyor belts, robotic arms, and automated spray mechanisms to clean mobile devices, thereby increasing cleaning speed and throughput while reducing manual labor
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning system is designed to automatically clean devices as they move through the conveyor system without requiring manual intervention, with the system serving itself by automatically applying cleaning solutions and wiping surfaces
2Reliability
If manual cleaning is performed, then cleaning can be completed, but cleaning consistency is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces variable manual cleaning actions with consistent automated robotic movements and controlled spray mechanisms, ensuring uniform cleaning application and repeatable results across all devices
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors and control mechanisms that monitor cleaning progress and adjust parameters in real-time to maintain consistent cleaning quality throughout the process
3Loss of time
If manual cleaning is performed, then cleaning can be done, but the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor-based system enables continuous cleaning operation where devices are cleaned as they move through the system without interruption, eliminating idle time and maximizing productive cleaning cycles
Solution Approach 2:
The automated robotic system performs cleaning actions faster and more efficiently than manual operations, reducing the total time required to clean each device while maintaining quality standards
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 robotic system enhances cleaning speed and consistency, reducing manual labor and increasing throughput by automating the cleaning process, ensuring thorough and efficient cleaning of mobile devices.
Implementation Method 1
automatically dispensed cleaning solution
Implementation Method 2
wipe an automatically dispensed cleaning solution from a first major surface
Implementation Method 3
automated blower
Data Source
AI summary
An automated cleaning system for a mobile device includes a conveyor to move the mobile device through the cleaning system; a first wiper to wipe an automatically dispensed cleaning solution from a first major surface of the mobile device; a first mobile device flipper to flip the mobile device 180 degrees; a side cleaner to clean four sides of the mobile device; a second wiper to wipe an automatically dispensed cleaning solution from a second major surface of the mobile device; and a smudge remover to remove smudges from the first major surface or the second major surface of the mobile device.