Multi-Orientation Cleaning Device with Valve-Based Fluid Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning devices for hard surfaces are inefficient and do not effectively manage the orientation of cleaning fluid flow, leading to suboptimal cleaning and potential exposure to atomized cleaning fluids when used at heights.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning device with a valve assembly that selectively routes cleaning fluid based on the device's orientation, using a first and second fluid pathway to ensure fluid flow to the pump and spray nozzle, and includes a vent member to manage air flow and prevent low pressures, allowing the device to be used in various orientations while containing the cleaning fluid spray.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single fluid pathway is used in prior art cleaning devices, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot effectively manage fluid flow in different orientations leading to suboptimal cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid pathway is segmented into multiple separate pathways (first fluid pathway and second fluid pathway), each optimized for specific orientations. This segmentation allows the device to adapt to different orientations effectively while maintaining manageable complexity through modular valve control.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly dynamically switches between different fluid pathways based on the device's orientation. The first valve and second valve selectively open or close pathways depending on whether the device is held horizontally or vertically, enabling adaptive fluid flow management without requiring a completely complex reconfigurable system.
2Ease of operation
If the device is used at heights without proper venting, then cleaning reach is improved, but atomized cleaning fluids may be inhaled by the user
Solution Approach 1:
The vent member acts as an intermediary component that manages air pressure and fluid atomization. It provides a controlled venting mechanism that prevents harmful atomized fluids from being inhaled while allowing the device to be used at heights for improved cleaning reach.
3Reliability
If the storage container is sealed tightly, then fluid containment is improved, but low pressures may form when the device is activated
Solution Approach 1:
The vent member is pre-configured to activate when the pump operates, allowing air to enter the storage container before significant pressure differentials develop. This preliminary venting action prevents harmful low pressures from forming while maintaining adequate fluid containment during operation.
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 device ensures efficient cleaning fluid distribution across surfaces regardless of orientation, preventing airborne exposure to atomized chemicals and allowing for refillable, reusable components, enhancing user safety and cleaning efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
A multi-orientation cleaning device includes a valve assembly having a first fluid pathway in fluid communication with the first portion and a second fluid pathway in fluid communication with the second portion. Further according to the present invention the device includes a first valve fluidly coupled to the first fluid pathway between the first portion and the pump, the first valve being configured to selectively fluidly couple the first portion to the pump based at least in part on the orientation of the device.
Implementation Method 2
A cleaning element having a spray nozzle is in fluid communication with the pump
Implementation Method 3
In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include a vent member fluidly coupled between an interior portion of the storage container and an ambient environment. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the device may include the vent member selectively flowing air into the interior environment in response to activation of the pump.
Data Source
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AI summary
A cleaning device and method of cleaning are provided. The cleaning device includes a power source and a pump in selective electrical communication with the power source. A storage container is provided. A valve assembly is disposed in the storage container and in fluid communication with the pump, the valve assembly being configured to selectively flow cleaning fluid from a first portion and a second portion of the storage container. A cleaning element having a spray nozzle is in fluid communication with the pump.