Sponge With Crumb Catching Tray
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning products do not offer a modular dual action sponge that can convert into a crumb catching device, limiting their functionality and hygiene in handling debris.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning product comprising two separable parts: a sponge made from absorbent materials like cellulose, polyurethane, or melamine, and a tray made from open non-woven fibers with abrasive particles. The sponge nests within the tray, forming a dual action sponge, and can be removed to convert the tray into a crumb catching device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single cleaning product is used, then it can perform one function well, but it cannot convert into a crumb catching device
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning product is divided into two separate components: a cleaning sponge and a crumb catching tray. The sponge can be removed from the tray, allowing each component to perform its dedicated function independently. This segmentation enables functional versatility without requiring a single complex multi-functional device.
Solution Approach 2:
The crumb catching tray is designed to serve dual purposes: it acts as a container for the cleaning sponge during cleaning operations, and it functions as a standalone crumb catching device when the sponge is removed. This multi-functionality increases adaptability while maintaining relatively simple structure.
2Ease of operation
If hands directly handle debris, then debris can be collected, but hands are exposed to potential bacteria or debris
Solution Approach 1:
The crumb catching tray serves as an intermediary container between the debris and the user's hands. Debris is collected in the tray rather than being handled directly, creating a barrier that prevents direct contact with potential contaminants while still allowing the user to empty the tray safely.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sponge is removed from tray, then tray becomes crumb catching device, but sponge must be stored separately
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning sponge is designed to nest within the crumb catching tray when not in use. This nesting arrangement provides automatic storage for the sponge, eliminating the need for separate storage containers while maintaining easy access to both components. The sponge fits into the tray's cavity, creating a compact stored configuration.
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 product provides a safe and sanitary way to clean surfaces and catch crumbs, offering dual functionality without exposing hands to potential bacteria or debris.
Implementation Method 1
When the sponge is moist, it increases in size and friction fits against the inner walls of the tray
Implementation Method 2
the sponge increases in size and friction fits against the inner walls of the tray
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention generally concerns a cleaning product having two parts. More specifically, the invention includes a sponge that, when moist, nests and friction fits against the inner walls of a similarly shaped tray. The sponge, Part A, is an absorbent material. The tray, Part B, is made from abrasive fibers. In a first configuration, both parts fit together to wipe clean and scour surfaces like a dual action sponge. In a second configuration, the sponge is removed from the tray, thereby converting the same into a crumb catching device. The sponge is used to push debris from surfaces into the tray's open receptacle. Such waste is then emptied from the tray into a trash bin. The invention saves a user's hands from unwanted touching of discarded waste.