Single-Tank Extractor Filtration to Prevent Cleaning Solution Clogging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable cleaning machines for planar surfaces require multiple tanks for dispensing and recovering cleaning solutions, leading to inefficiencies in solution recycling and increased user burden, as well as issues with filtration systems that can clog due to uneven dirt distribution.
Innovation Solution
A portable cleaning apparatus with a single solution tank and an improved filtration system, featuring a multi-component filter assembly and a replaceable cartridge filter, along with a sloping tank bottom to reduce clogging, allows for efficient recycling and reuse of cleaning solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single solution tank is used for both dispensing and recovering cleaning solution, then the number of tanks and user burden are reduced, but the filtration system becomes more critical to prevent clogging from accumulated debris
Solution Approach 1:
The filtration system is segmented into multiple components: a first filter element for larger debris and a second filter element for smaller particles. This segmentation allows each filter to handle specific particle sizes, preventing clogging and maintaining reliable operation in the single-tank system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension to filtration by stacking filter elements at different heights within the tank. The first filter element is positioned higher while the second is positioned lower, creating a multi-level filtration structure that efficiently handles debris of varying sizes and densities.
2Productivity
If a multi-component filter assembly is used to filter larger debris, then the cleaning solution can be recycled more effectively, but the filter assembly may clog due to uneven dirt distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is divided into removable first and second filter elements that can be independently accessed and maintained. This segmentation allows users to clean or replace individual filters based on their specific needs, simplifying maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a filter housing structure that acts as an intermediary, providing easy access to the filter elements through a removable cover. This intermediary structure simplifies the maintenance operation by allowing users to reach and service filters without draining the tank or disassembling complex components.
3Reliability
If the tank bottom is sloped to collect debris, then filter clogging is reduced, but the tank design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The tank bottom is designed with a slope that converges toward a central drain location. This curved, sloped geometry naturally guides debris and liquid toward the drain, preventing accumulation and filter clogging while maintaining a relatively simple overall tank structure.
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 apparatus effectively recycles cleaning solutions by filtering out larger and smaller debris, reducing the need for multiple tanks and minimizing user intervention, while the sloping tank design alleviates filter clogging issues, enhancing operational efficiency and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum source for the extractor apparatus, the vacuum source being in communication with the cleaning head of the wand for suctioning the surface being cleaned
Implementation Method 2
A fluid pump circulates cleaning solution in a path between the solution tank and the cleaning head of the wand
Implementation Method 3
The first multi-component filter assembly is used to filter larger particles such as larger dirt and debris particles from the cleaning solution entering the solution tank
Implementation Method 4
The second filter component filters particles from the cleaning solution and dirt of a smaller size than the particles filtered from the first multi-component filter assembly
Implementation Method 5
The solution tank bottom wall slopes from a relatively higher rearward extent to a relatively lower forward extent thereof, the forward extent containing a drain opening for the tank
Data Source
AI summary
A portable extractor apparatus is shown which includes a wheel mounted base having a solution tank for dispensing and recovering cleaning solution. A cleaning head communicates with the solution tank and contacts the surface to the cleaned for dispensing and recovering cleaning solution. A fluid pump circulates cleaning solution in a path between the solution tank and the cleaning head. A vacuum motor provides a vacuum source for the cleaning head for suctioning the surface being cleaned. The solution tank has mounted thereon both an initial multi-component filter assembly which initially filters incoming solution being circulated to the solution tank and a distinct final filter component which removes smaller particles from the solution being re-circulated from the tank. The solution tank bottom wall has a profile which improves the efficiency of the final filter component.