Handheld cleaning tool
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable cleaning devices lack versatility and efficiency in maneuverability and fluid delivery systems, limiting their effectiveness in cleaning surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning device with a handle and a movable cleaning element connected via a flexible conduit, allowing rotation about two axes at an angle, featuring a locking mechanism and a mounting assembly with a clevis-type configuration, and a fluid delivery system with a pump and ports for efficient fluid distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the cleaning element is rigidly fixed to the handle, then the structure is simple and stable, but the maneuverability and adaptability to different surfaces are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning element is made dynamically adjustable through a mounting assembly that allows rotation about two axes (first axis and second axis orthogonal to the first). The cleaning element can be positioned at multiple angular orientations and locked in place, transforming from a static rigid connection to a dynamic adjustable connection that adapts to different cleaning surfaces and angles.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting assembly is segmented into multiple independent components: a mounting bracket attached to the handle, an adapter that connects to the cleaning element, and a locking mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function (positioning, rotation, locking) independently, enabling complex maneuverability through simple modular parts.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a rigid mounting structure is used, then the manufacturing is simple, but the ability to adjust to different cleaning angles and surfaces is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly is divided into separable components (mounting bracket, adapter, locking mechanism) that can be manufactured independently using standard machining processes. Each component is relatively simple in shape, making them easy to manufacture, while their combination provides complex adjustability functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting assembly is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate different cleaning element types and orientations. The orthogonal axis rotation system provides multi-functionality, allowing the same mounting structure to adapt to various cleaning surfaces (windows, walls, ceilings) without requiring custom manufacturing for each application.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the cleaning element can rotate freely, then the maneuverability is maximized, but the stability and precision of positioning are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism provides a feedback-based positioning system where the user adjusts the cleaning element to the desired angle, then activates the locking mechanism to maintain that position. The locking mechanism detects the position through radially spaced openings that engage with corresponding features, providing stable positioning feedback without restricting the initial adjustment maneuverability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic adjustable position through the two-axis rotation capability, then locks into a stable fixed position when positioning is complete. This dynamic-to-static transition allows maximum maneuverability during adjustment while ensuring stability during actual cleaning operation.
4Productivity
If a complex fluid delivery system is used, then the fluid distribution is more controlled, but the device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid delivery system uses a flexible conduit that can be positioned within the handle interior to deliver fluid precisely to the cleaning element's front lateral edge where it is most needed. The conduit connects to an internal cavity with ports positioned at the bottom, providing localized fluid distribution exactly at the cleaning interface, maximizing cleaning efficiency without requiring complex distribution networks throughout the entire device.
Data Source
AI summary
A cleaning device includes a handle having a longitudinal axis, a cleaning element movably coupled to the handle, and a flexible conduit fluidly connectable to the cleaning element. The flexible conduit is positionable within an interior of the handle. The cleaning element is movable relative to the handle about a first axis and a second axis when the flexible conduit is fluidly coupled to the cleaning element. The first axis and the second axis are arranged at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis.