Shopping Cart Sanitizing Assembly with UV Tunnel and Grappling Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated shopping cart sanitizing devices rely on washing methods that may not effectively eliminate all pathogens, and there is a need for a more comprehensive sanitization approach.
Innovation Solution
A sanitizing device featuring a tunnel with integrated lower and upper ultraviolet lights and grappling units that transport shopping carts through the tunnel, utilizing UV light for sanitization and a dual drive system to facilitate cart movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If washing methods are used to sanitize shopping carts, then the sanitization process can be performed mechanically, but the effectiveness in eliminating all pathogens is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical washing with ultraviolet light sanitization into a single integrated system. The washing mechanism physically removes debris while UV lights simultaneously eliminate pathogens, creating a comprehensive sanitization approach that addresses both mechanical cleaning and microbial elimination without requiring separate devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces ultraviolet light technology to replace or supplement purely mechanical washing methods. The UV sanitization system provides a non-mechanical means of pathogen elimination that works alongside the mechanical washing system, enhancing overall effectiveness without relying solely on mechanical action
2Extent of automation
If a tunnel structure with integrated lights and drive units is used, then automated cart transport and sanitization is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tunnel structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the enclosed space for UV light distribution, houses the drive units for cart transportation, and contains the washing mechanisms. This multi-functional design achieves automated transport and sanitization while consolidating components into a single integrated structure rather than requiring separate systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent nests multiple functional components within the tunnel structure: drive units are positioned inside the tunnel, UV lights are integrated into the tunnel walls or ceiling, and washing mechanisms are contained within the same enclosed space. This nesting approach allows complex functionality to be achieved within a unified structural framework
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 provides thorough sanitization of shopping carts by using UV light to eliminate pathogens, ensuring a higher level of hygiene and safety.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of lower ultraviolet lights and a plurality of upper ultraviolet lights is each integrated into the tunnel to project ultraviolet light for sanitizing shopping carts
Data Source
AI summary
A shopping cart sanitizing assembly includes a tunnel that is positionable in a location which employs shopping carts wherein the tunnel is configured to have the shopping carts moved through the tunnel. A plurality of lower ultraviolet lights and a plurality of upper ultraviolet lights is each integrated into the tunnel to project ultraviolet light for sanitizing shopping carts. A first drive unit and a second drive unit is each movably integrated into the tunnel. A plurality of grappling units each extends between the first drive unit and the second drive unit. Each of the grapping units engages a handle of a respective shopping cart to transport the respective shopping cart through the tunnel.