Portable extractor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable extraction cleaners lack a convenient and efficient method for removably attaching and detaching hoses, which can lead to kinking and tension issues during storage and use, affecting the cleaning process.
Innovation Solution
A hose attachment assembly with a suction conduit and fluid coupling that is removably coupled to the cleaner, allowing for easy attachment and detachment while minimizing hose tension and kinking, and featuring a design that nests the hose proximal end adjacent to the base for compact storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the hose is permanently attached to the cleaner, then the connection is stable and secure, but the hose cannot be easily stored or transported, leading to kinking and tension issues
Solution Approach 1:
The hose system is divided into separate components: the external hose and the hose attachment assembly. The hose attachment assembly can be removably coupled to the base, allowing the hose to be detached for storage and reattached for use. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by enabling both stable connection during operation and easy storage during non-use.
Solution Approach 2:
The hose attachment assembly transitions from a static permanent attachment to a dynamic removable attachment. The coupling mechanism allows the hose attachment assembly to be easily attached and detached from the base, providing adaptability between operational stability and storage convenience.
2Device complexity
If the hose attachment assembly is permanently fixed to the base, then the structure is simple and robust, but the hose cannot be removed for compact storage
Solution Approach 1:
The hose attachment assembly is designed as a separate removable component from the base. This segmentation allows the assembly to be detached and stored in a compact manner, reducing the volume occupied during storage while maintaining structural simplicity through standardized coupling interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The hose attachment assembly can be nested or stored adjacent to the base when not in use. The proximal end of the external hose nests adjacent to the base, optimizing storage space utilization without requiring additional storage volume.
3Ease of operation
If the hose is left loose during storage, then it is easy to access, but it creates tension and kinking that affects cleaning performance
Solution Approach 1:
The hose attachment assembly is pre-positioned to nest adjacent to the base during storage. This preliminary positioning prevents the hose from becoming loose and creating tension or kinks, while still allowing easy access when needed. The standardized coupling interface enables quick attachment without compromising cleaning performance.
4Weight of moving object
If the hose attachment assembly is designed for easy removal, then portability is improved, but connection stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism provides dynamic adaptability, ensuring stable connection during operation while allowing easy removal for portability. The standardized interface maintains connection reliability when attached, while the removable nature improves portability and storage flexibility.
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
Enhances the usability and efficiency of the cleaning process by reducing hose tension and kinking, facilitating easy storage and operation, and improving the overall portability and reliability of the extraction cleaner.
Implementation Method 1
a suction source in fluid communication with the recovery tank and operable to draw recovered liquid and dirt into the recovery tank
Implementation Method 2
a pump in fluid communication with the supply tank and operable to supply cleaning liquid from the supply tank
Data Source
AI summary
An extraction cleaner includes a supply tank, a recovery tank, a pump, a suction source, a base configured to support the suction source and the pump, an external hose, and a hose attachment assembly. The hose attachment assembly has a suction conduit extending from a suction inlet connected to the proximal end of the hose to a suction outlet in fluid communication with the recovery tank. The suction conduit is removable from the base with the hose. The hose attachment assembly also has a fluid coupling which is removable with the suction conduit. The fluid coupling extends from a coupling inlet in fluid communication with the pump to a coupling outlet coupled to a supply tube having one or more portions carried within the suction conduit. The proximal end of the hose is at least partially nested adjacent the base when the suction conduit is coupled to the base.