Hand-Worn Steam Cleaning Accessory for Non-Flat Indoor Surfaces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steam cleaning devices are not well-suited for cleaning non-flat surfaces indoors due to their size and design, and existing handheld cleaning accessories are limited to outdoor use with water, which can cause mess and damage when used indoors.
Innovation Solution
A flexible steam cleaning accessory with a steam conduit and thermal insulation layer, designed for use with a steam generator, that is wearable on the hand, allowing for effective sanitizing of non-flat surfaces like toilets, taps, and sinks without the need for running water, featuring a flexible sheath, steam bladder, and removable cleaning elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional steam cleaner with a fixed cleaning head is used, then steam can be delivered to floor surfaces, but the device cannot effectively clean non-flat surfaces such as toilets, taps, and shower heads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static, rigid cleaning head into a dynamic, flexible accessory that can adapt its shape to different surfaces. The flexible sheath with integrated steam conduit allows the cleaning tool to conform to contours of toilets, taps, shower heads and other non-flat surfaces, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible sheath as the primary structure of the cleaning accessory, replacing rigid components with flexible materials. This flexible shell allows the accessory to bend and adapt to various surface geometries while maintaining structural integrity, enabling effective cleaning of diverse surfaces without increasing device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If a handheld cleaning accessory using water is used indoors, then cleaning can be performed, but water causes mess and damage on indoor surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state parameter from liquid water to gaseous steam. Steam delivers the cleaning function without the liquid water that causes dripping and mess. The steam condenses on surfaces to leave minimal residue, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and harmful factors generated.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the water-based mechanical cleaning system with a steam-based thermal cleaning system. Instead of using liquid water flow to remove dirt, the system uses steam heat and phase change to sanitize and clean surfaces, eliminating the harmful dripping effect while maintaining cleaning effectiveness.
3Temperature
If thermal insulation material is exposed at the edges of the flexible sheath, then thermal insulation is provided, but sharp edges irritate the user's skin
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible sheath that completely encloses the thermal insulation material, providing a smooth, flexible outer surface that eliminates sharp edges while maintaining thermal insulation. The flexible material conforms to the hand and provides protection without skin irritation, resolving the contradiction between temperature control and harmful factors.
4Ease of operation
If multiple separate components are used to construct the steam cleaning accessory, then functionality is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the steam conduit, thermal insulation layer, and flexible sheath into an integrated assembly where components work together as a unified structure. The steam conduit is positioned within the flexible sheath with thermal insulation between them, creating a compact design that maintains full functionality while simplifying manufacturing through reduced assembly steps.
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 convenient and mess-free sanitizing of indoor surfaces, providing effective germ killing without the risks associated with water use, and is more robust and easier to manufacture due to its design and materials.
Implementation Method 1
a steam conduit having at least one steam outlet, the at least one steam conduit being arranged to be in fluid communication with the steam generator
Implementation Method 2
the at least one steam conduit being arranged to be in fluid communication with the steam generator
Implementation Method 3
at least one flexible thermal insulation layer mounted between the first and second side walls
Data Source
AI summary
A steam cleaning accessory for use with a steam generator comprises a flexible sheath having a first side wall, a second side wall and a base there between. At least one steam conduit has at least one steam outlet. The at least one steam conduit is arranged to be in fluid communication with the steam generator. At least one flexible thermal insulation layer is mounted between the first and second side walls. The steam conduit is mounted on a first side of the base and the flexible thermal insulation layer is mounted on a second side of the base. A restraint is coupled to the flexible sheath and arranged to receive a user's hand.