Surface cleaning apparatus and tray
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-surface vacuum cleaners lack an efficient and automated self-cleaning mechanism for the brushroll and fluid recovery system, leading to manual cleaning challenges and potential clogging issues.
Innovation Solution
A cordless surface cleaning apparatus with a self-cleaning mode that includes a rechargeable battery, a fluid delivery system, and a controller to execute an unattended automatic cleanout cycle, utilizing a pump, brushroll motor, and vacuum motor for dispensing cleaning fluid, rotating the brushroll, and extracting fluid and debris, with a storage tray for recharging and self-cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a self-cleaning mode with automated cleanout cycle is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs self-cleaning operations through a controller that energizes the pump, brushroll motor, and vacuum motor in sequence without requiring manual intervention. The controller executes a complete cleanout cycle that dispenses cleaning fluid, rotates the brushroll, and extracts fluid and debris automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares for self-cleaning by positioning the brushroll within the brushroll chamber and ensuring the fluid delivery system is ready to dispense cleaning fluid before the cleanout cycle begins. The controller pre-configures the sequence of operations to ensure smooth execution of the automated cleaning process.
2Productivity
If multiple motors and a pump are energized during self-cleaning mode, then cleaning performance is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller energizes the pump, brushroll motor, and vacuum motor in a specific sequence and for specific durations rather than continuously. The system activates components only when needed during the cleanout cycle, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining effective cleaning performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous operation of the cleaning components during the energized period to ensure thorough cleaning. The pump, brushroll motor, and vacuum motor operate continuously throughout their designated phases to maximize cleaning effectiveness during the active cleanout cycle.
3Productivity
If the brushroll is rotated at high speed during cleanout, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but mechanical stress increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brushroll motor is energized for specific time intervals during the cleanout cycle rather than continuously at maximum speed. The controller manages the rotation duration and intensity to achieve effective cleaning while allowing mechanical components to rest between activation cycles, reducing cumulative stress.
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 efficient and automated cleaning of the brushroll and fluid recovery system, reducing manual effort and clogging risks, while allowing for cordless operation and enhanced cleaning performance.
Implementation Method 1
a pump, the brushroll motor, and the vacuum motor are activated according to a predetermined sequence
Implementation Method 2
a brushroll motor adapted to provide a driving force to rotate the brushroll about the brushroll axis
Implementation Method 3
a source of suction in fluid communication with the working air conduit to draw the cleaning fluid from the surface to be cleaned and through the nozzle and the working air conduit to the recovery tank
Implementation Method 4
a rechargeable battery provided within a battery housing on the upright body, the rechargeable battery configured to selectively supply power to the vacuum motor, the pump, and the brushroll motor
Data Source
AI summary
A surface cleaning apparatus adapted for movement across a surface to be cleaned includes a recovery system and a fluid delivery system. The surface cleaning apparatus can have a rechargeable battery and a battery housing for the rechargeable battery. The surface cleaning apparatus has a self-cleaning mode of operation in which an unattended automatic cleanout cycle is executed.