Floor Finishing Machine Pad-Type Detection for Automatic Speed Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing floor finishing machines are inefficient as they require manual adjustment of rotation speed based on the type of pad attached, leading to potential pad damage from inappropriate speeds.

Innovation Solution

A motor-powered floor finishing machine equipped with a variable speed motor and a controller that automatically detects the type of pad using indicators and sensors, such as RFID tags or magnetic sets, to adjust the maximum speed of rotation accordingly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If the rotation speed is increased to improve productivity, then the cleaning or polishing effectiveness is improved, but the pad is quickly destroyed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning effectivenessVSAvoidpad lifespan
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the rotation speed based on the detected pad type. The controller receives signals from sensors identifying the pad type and automatically modifies the motor speed to match the optimal range for that specific pad, preventing both under-performance and over-speed damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates sensors that detect pad type and provide feedback to the controller. This feedback loop enables the controller to automatically adjust the rotation speed according to the detected pad characteristics, ensuring optimal performance while preventing pad destruction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Duration of action of stationary object

If the rotation speed is limited to protect the pad, then pad lifespan is extended, but the cleaning or polishing effectiveness is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepad lifespanVSAvoidcleaning effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the rotation speed based on the detected pad type. The controller receives signals from sensors identifying the pad type and automatically modifies the motor speed to match the optimal range for that specific pad, preventing both under-performance and over-speed damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the operational parameter (rotation speed) based on the detected pad type. Different pad types have different optimal speed ranges, and the controller adjusts the speed parameter accordingly to maximize both effectiveness and pad lifespan.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If manual adjustment of rotation speed is required for different pad types, then pad performance can be optimized, but operation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepad performance optimizationVSAvoidspeed adjustment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically detecting the pad type through sensors and adjusting the rotation speed without operator intervention. The sensor identifies pad characteristics and the controller autonomously sets the appropriate speed, eliminating manual adjustment requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated sensing and control system. Sensors detect pad type and the controller electronically adjusts motor speed, substituting human operation with an automated electromechanical system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 machine ensures optimal pad performance by automatically adjusting the rotation speed based on the pad type, preventing premature damage and enhancing the effectiveness of floor treatments.

Implementation Method 1

The indicator may be a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag adapted to send a radio frequency signal indicative of the type of pad attached to the plate, and sensor is one adapted to receive said radio frequency signals from the RFID tag

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRFID (Radio Frequency Identification):

Implementation Method 2

In other embodiments, the sensor is adapted to read a code located on a surface of the plate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic detection: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 3

a variable speed motor and controller adapted to control the speed of the motor. A drive is driven by the variable speed motor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVariable speed motor control:

Data Source

PatentUS11969127B2Automatic detection system for combination burnisher, polisher, and scrubber
Publication Date: 2024.04.30 DIAMOND PRODUCTS LIMITED
  • US11969127B2 patent drawing
  • US11969127B2 patent drawing
  • US11969127B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Multiple floor treatment operations, such as burnishing, polishing and scrubbing, may be performed using a single floor treatment machine having a motor, the speed of which is governed by a controller that responds to sensor signals indicative of the type of floor treatments pad or pads operatively coupled to the motor.