Soft-Surface Deodorizing Composition Without Visible Residue
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for removing odors from soft surfaces like carpeting and upholstery often leave residues, require professional services, or are not effective in eliminating deeply embedded odor-causing molecules, and lack anti-microbial properties.
Innovation Solution
A liquid formulation comprising triethylene glycol, nonionic and ionic surfactants, and a low molecular weight alcohol is sprayed onto soft surfaces, forming agglomerations that dissolve odor-causing molecules, reducing their vapor pressure without leaving a visible residue and providing anti-microbial properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If water-soluble cyclodextrins or film-forming polymers are used to remove odors from soft surfaces, then odor-causing molecules are trapped or contained, but visible residues are left on the surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state parameter of the active ingredient from solid (cyclodextrins, polymers) to liquid (glycol). This liquid form allows the active ingredient to dissolve odor-causing molecules without forming a visible film or residue on the soft surface, while still providing effective odor elimination.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If cyclodextrins or film-forming polymers are used for odor control, then odor-causing molecules are trapped, but anti-microbial properties are not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by selecting a glycol active ingredient that simultaneously provides odor elimination through dissolution and anti-microbial properties through bacterial cell membrane disruption. This single substance addresses both odor control and sanitation needs without requiring separate treatment agents.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If enzymes or detergents are used to remove odor-causing molecules from carpeting and upholstery, then deeply embedded odors are eliminated, but professional services or special machinery are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a simple sprayable liquid composition that can be easily applied by consumers without requiring professional equipment or services. The liquid glycol formulation penetrates soft surfaces to reach deeply embedded odor-causing molecules, providing professional-grade results through a consumer-friendly application method.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If water-soluble cyclodextrins or metallic salts are used to control odors, then odor-causing compounds are absorbed or complexed, but the treatment requires multiple components and increases formulation complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and utilizes the key functional property of the active ingredient (liquid state at room temperature with odor-neutralizing capability) while eliminating unnecessary complex components. The glycol-based formulation achieves effective odor elimination through a simplified single-substance approach rather than requiring multiple active components like cyclodextrins and metallic salts.
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
Effectively eliminates odors from soft surfaces by dissolving odor-causing molecules into the agglomerations, reducing their detection by the human sense of smell, and offering a residue-free and anti-microbial solution for embedded odors.
Implementation Method 1
the formula comprises an active ingredient that is a liquid at room temperature and allowing the formula to absorb into the soft surface and make contact with an odor causing material disposed within the soft surface
Implementation Method 2
dissolving odor-causing molecules into the agglomerations, reducing their detection by the human sense of smell
Implementation Method 3
The improved formulation makes use of triethylene glycol and a combination of nonionic and ionic surfactants
Implementation Method 4
one of which has bactericidal properties
Implementation Method 5
A liquid formulation comprising triethylene glycol, nonionic and ionic surfactants, and a low molecular weight alcohol is sprayed onto soft surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
A method and composition for deodorizing soft surfaces such as carpeting and upholstery are disclosed. The method includes the spraying of a liquid composition on a soft surface and allowing the composition to absorb into the soft surface, form liquid agglomerations within the soft surface to the agglomerations can make contact with malodorants disposed within the soft surface. The composition comprises an active ingredient that is a liquid at room temperature with a vapor pressure of less than 0.0035mmHg at room temperature. For example, the active ingredient can be triethylene glycol. Other ingredients that contribute to agglomeration formation include ethanol, water, fragrance and a combination of at least one nonionic and at least one ionic surfactant.