Apparatus and method for cleaning split system air conditioners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for cleaning split system air conditioners are time-consuming, messy, and inefficient, often resulting in soiled adjacent areas, and lack effective protection for the wall behind the unit during cleaning.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus consists of a dry shield mounted between the wall and the AC unit, a drain pan that forms a watertight seal with the shield, and a drain hose connected to a bucket, allowing for efficient drainage of wastewater and debris without soiling the wall or floor, along with a kit that includes a dry shield, drain pan, hose, and support means for easy installation and cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual cleaning methods are used with plastic bags and drainage receptacles, then cleaning can be performed, but the adjacent wall and floor become soiled and require additional cleanup
Solution Approach 1:
A waterproof shield is installed behind the AC unit before cleaning begins. This preliminary protective measure creates a barrier that prevents water and debris from soiling the wall during the cleaning process, eliminating the need for additional cleanup of adjacent areas
Solution Approach 2:
The waterproof shield acts as an intermediary barrier between the cleaning process and the wall. It intercepts water and debris, redirecting them away from the wall surface while allowing the cleaning operation to proceed normally
2Ease of operation
If traditional drainage receptacles are used below the AC unit, then wastewater can be collected, but the receptacles must be emptied after each cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
A drain hose is connected to the drain pan to create a gravity-driven hydraulic system. Wastewater automatically flows through the hose into a collection container below, eliminating the need to manually empty receptacles and enabling continuous cleaning operations
3Stability of the object's composition
If the AC unit is permanently mounted in a wall, then installation is secure, but cleaning becomes time-consuming and messy
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system is segmented into separate functional components: a waterproof shield for protection, a drain pan for collection, and a drain hose for drainage. This modular approach allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to improve overall cleaning efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The waterproof shield serves as an intermediary structure that reconciles the conflict between permanent mounting and efficient cleaning. It allows the AC unit to remain securely mounted while providing a controlled environment for water and debris management during cleaning
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for cleaning split system air conditioning units. The apparatus comprises a shield functioning as a moisture barrier that sits between the wall and the AC unit and which releasably receives a drain pan that interconnects with the bottom of the shield to form a water tight seal. A flexible tube connects the bottom of the drain pan to a collection receptacle. Water and chemical sprayed into the unit to clean the unit drain through the unit, into the drain pan, through the tubing, and are collected by and can be disposed of from the receptacle. After the AC unit is cleaned, the drain pan, tubing and collection receptacle are removed leaving the area clean and dry. Kits comprising the apparatus of the invention can be sold together with new AC units or purchased separately.