Hard Floor Cleaner Float Filtration for Wet-Dry Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing floor cleaning devices require separate systems for dry and wet cleaning modes, which is inefficient and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A floor cleaning device with a container system that includes a suction source, a float, and a filter assembly, allowing for both dry and wet cleaning operations using a single device by adjusting the float position based on liquid levels to control fluid flowpaths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate separator systems are used for dry and wet cleaning modes, then each mode can be optimized independently, but the device complexity increases and requires multiple systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal separator system that handles both dry and wet cleaning modes through a single integrated structure. The separator includes a body with a first opening for dry dirt and a second opening for liquid, both leading to a common collection chamber. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate separator systems while maintaining optimized performance for both cleaning modes.
2Ease of operation
If a single device is used for both wet and dry cleaning operations, then user convenience improves, but the device must accommodate multiple functions which may compromise performance optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The separator system is segmented into distinct functional zones: a first opening for dry dirt reception, a second opening for liquid reception, a collection chamber for dry dirt, and a liquid collection area. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized for its specific function while being part of a unified system, maintaining high cleaning efficiency for both dry and wet modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the dry dirt collection chamber and liquid collection area into a single integrated separator structure with a common housing. The outlet tube serves both functions by selectively receiving either dry dirt or liquid based on operating mode. This merging maintains operational convenience while preserving the performance optimization of separate systems through intelligent design.
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 versatile cleaning by allowing the device to seamlessly transition between dry and wet modes without the need for separate systems, improving pick-up efficiency and user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
An annular float selectively closes the fluid flowpath. The float is located in the container and surrounds the inlet tube
Implementation Method 2
A suction source is mounted on the housing and is fluidly connected with the outlet of the container
Implementation Method 3
A filter and float assembly is carried by the container for filtering dirt from entrained air entering the container
Data Source
AI summary
A floor cleaning device (10) includes a housing (40) and a container (43) removably received by the housing. A suction nozzle (18, 18′, 18″) is fluidly connected with the container and with a suction source (52) when the container is received by the housing. A filter (114) is selectively fluidly connected with the container and with the suction source. A float (170) selectively closes the fluid connection of the filter with the container. The filter and the float may be removable as a unit (42) from the cleaning device. The nozzle may be removable, allowing an appropriate nozzle to be selected according to the type of floor surface to be cleaned.