Foldable Pet Wash Tub Layout for Space-Limited Car Wash Bays
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and space constraints of traditional self-service pet wash facilities make it difficult for owners to install them, especially in areas where space is limited, such as car wash bays, as they require separate structures and real estate optimization.
Innovation Solution
A compact self-service pet wash station that includes a foldable wash tub, an equipment room, and support structures like bridge members and pivot bars, allowing the tub to rotate between open and stored positions, enabling efficient use of space and integration with existing car wash facilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional self-service pet wash facility is installed, then pet washing functionality is provided, but space requirements increase and installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wash tub is designed to be movable between a stored position (within the equipment room) and an extended position (outside for pet washing). This dynamic configuration allows the system to provide full pet washing functionality when needed while minimizing space occupation during non-use periods, directly resolving the contradiction between functionality and space requirement
Solution Approach 2:
The wash tub nests within the equipment room when not in use, with the tub being stored inside the same structure that houses the washing equipment. This nesting arrangement eliminates the need for separate dedicated spaces for equipment and wash tub, reducing overall space requirements while maintaining full pet washing capability
2Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional self-service pet wash facility is installed, then pet washing functionality is provided, but installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The equipment room serves multiple functions: it houses the washing equipment, stores the wash tub when not in use, and provides structural support for the entire system. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate structures for equipment housing and wash tub placement, reducing material costs and simplifying installation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the equipment housing and wash tub storage into a single integrated equipment room structure. By merging these previously separate components into one unit, the system reduces the number of separate structures needed, lowering both material costs and installation complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If a pet wash is installed in a car wash bay, then pet washing is enabled, but vehicle access is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The wash tub dynamically transitions between a compact stored position inside the equipment room (allowing full vehicle access) and an extended working position outside (enabling pet washing). This dynamic movement resolves the contradiction by providing pet washing capability only when needed, without permanently blocking vehicle access to the bay
Data Source
AI summary
A compact self-service pet wash is provided. The compact self-service pet wash includes an equipment room, and a foldable wash tub. The equipment room has a depth that defines the storage depth of the pet wash. The equipment room provides the means to control and supply the wash tub with rinse water, wash solution mix and dry air to wash a pet in the wash tub.