Self-Propelled Paint Removal Machine for Artificial Turf

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for removing and extracting field paint from artificial turf are inefficient due to the limited time between events, extensive paint coverage areas, and the complexity of removing and extracting paint from discontinuous markings, which complicates the process and can lead to incomplete paint removal and hardening of paint residue.

Innovation Solution

A self-propelled paint removal and extraction machine equipped with a brush assembly for agitating and dislodging paint from synthetic turf fibers and a vacuum assembly for extracting the paint, along with an optional paint dissolving solution application to facilitate removal, allowing for two passes over the surface to ensure thorough paint removal and extraction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual or conventional methods are used to remove field paint from artificial turf, then the process can be performed with simple equipment, but the paint removal is incomplete and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepaint removal efficiencyVSAvoidtime between events
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the paint removal function and paint extraction function into a single integrated machine. The brush assembly removes paint from the turf surface while the vacuum assembly simultaneously extracts the dislodged paint, eliminating the need for separate removal and extraction operations and significantly improving efficiency within limited time between events

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The machine enables continuous paint removal and extraction in a single pass across the turf surface. The brush assembly continuously agitates and removes paint while the vacuum assembly continuously extracts it, preventing paint residue from hardening and maintaining continuous productive action throughout the cleaning process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

2Reliability

If conventional extraction methods are used, then the equipment is simple, but paint residue hardens and cushioning effect is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepaint removal completenessVSAvoidmachine structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The vacuum assembly acts as an intermediary that immediately removes dislodged paint from the turf surface through suction. This prevents the paint from re-adhering or hardening, ensuring complete removal and preserving the turf's cushioning effect. The vacuum system includes a collection container that captures and removes all extracted paint

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The machine is self-propelled with drive wheels that move the entire unit across the turf surface without requiring external towing or manual pushing. The brush and vacuum assemblies are self-contained and automatically perform their functions as the machine moves, reducing the need for external equipment or manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 effectively removes and extracts field paint from artificial turf, ensuring efficient paint removal and preventing paint residue from hardening, thus maintaining the turf's cushioning effect and playability.

Implementation Method 1

a vacuum assembly supported by the frame rearward of the brush assembly and including a ground-contacting vacuum pad having a plurality of suction ports

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuction: Suction

Implementation Method 2

a brush assembly supported by the frame rearward of the first and second caster assemblies and including a first outer brush rotating about a first brush axis of rotation and a second other brush rotating about a second brush axis

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS9732487B2Artificial turf field paint remover and extraction machine
Publication Date: 2017.08.15 THE PIONEER MFG
  • US9732487B2 patent drawing
  • US9732487B2 patent drawing
  • US9732487B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A self-propelled field paint removal and extraction machine for removing paint from artificial turf athletic fields. The machine includes a self propelled, zero-turn rolling chassis including a frame defining a longitudinal axis of the machine; a brush assembly supported by the frame rearward of first and second front wheel caster assemblies and including a first outer brush rotating about a first brush axis of rotation and a second other brush rotating about a second brush axis, the brush assembly movable between a retracted position and a ground-contacting position; and a vacuum assembly supported by the frame rearward of the brush assembly and including a ground-contacting vacuum pad having a plurality of suction ports, the vacuum pad extending parallel to a lateral axis of the machine; and wherein the first and second brushes, in the retracted position of the brush assembly, are within a front footprint of the rolling chassis.