Curved Squeegee Assembly for Low-Suction Floor Liquid Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional squeegee assemblies for floor cleaning machines are inefficient in removing liquids due to the need for extensive suction to draw liquid from the outer extents and are cumbersome to maintain, as squeegee blades wear out quickly and require replacement.
Innovation Solution
A uniquely shaped squeegee assembly with a frame having suction ports and concave/convex squeegee blades that channel liquid towards the suction ports, along with a fixation device and rollers to orient and secure the blades, enhancing liquid removal efficiency and simplifying blade replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional straight squeegee assemblies are used, then the structure is simple, but liquid removal efficiency is poor because suction must draw liquid from outer extents
Solution Approach 1:
The squeegee blade is designed with a curved cross-sectional shape featuring a convex upper surface and a concave lower surface. This curvature creates a hydrodynamic profile that actively channels liquid toward the suction port, reducing reliance on suction alone and improving liquid removal efficiency while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the squeegee blade by introducing specific curvature radii for the convex and concave surfaces. This parameter modification transforms the blade from a flat or simple straight shape into an optimized curved profile that enhances liquid flow dynamics toward the suction port.
2Productivity
If V-shaped or arced squeegee assemblies are used, then liquid removal efficiency is improved by driving fluid toward the center, but blade replacement becomes more cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The squeegee blade is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently removed and replaced. The curved blade profile is maintained while enabling segmentation from the housing, allowing efficient blade replacement without replacing the entire assembly, thus improving ease of repair while preserving liquid removal efficiency.
3Reliability
If multiple connectors are used to attach squeegee blades, then blade fixation is secure, but the blade replacement process becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism uses localized engagement features positioned at specific points on the blade and housing rather than multiple distributed connectors. This local quality approach provides secure fixation through strategically placed connection points that simplify the replacement process while maintaining reliable blade attachment during operation.
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 squeegee assembly effectively removes liquids from the floor with reduced reliance on suction and simplifies the process of connecting and replacing squeegee blades, improving overall cleaning efficiency and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
a first and a second suction port positioned on opposite sides of the frame relative to the center point
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an improved squeegee assembly. Some embodiments of the present invention are directed to a uniquely shaped squeegee configuration that has been found to remove liquids from a floor in an efficient manner. One particular embodiment utilizes a W-shaped squeegee. Other embodiments are directed to a squeegee fixation device. Yet other embodiments are directed toward a squeegee orientation device. Some embodiments are also directed toward a lifting mechanism and the connection between the squeegee assembly and the lifting mechanism.