Substrate Particle Separation Using Alternating G-Force Rinsing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning methods fail to efficiently separate solid particles from flexible substrates like textiles without extending wash cycle times, which is a concern for domestic laundry where minimal residual particles are desired.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a sequence of rotating a substrate with solid particles and a liquid medium, followed by separation and rinsing steps, utilizing alternating centripetal G forces of less than 1 G and greater than or equal to 1 G for short time periods, and repeating these steps to enhance particle separation efficiency without prolonging the cycle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional separation methods are used, then cleaning performance is maintained, but particle separation efficiency is insufficient and cycle times are extended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing alternating high and low G-force phases during the separation cycle. The drum rotates at high G-force (≥1G) for short pulses to propel particles toward the drum wall, then switches to low G-force (<1G) to allow particles to settle and separate from the substrate. This periodic alternation between high and low G-force states continues for multiple cycles, achieving efficient particle separation without requiring extended total cycle times.
2Manufacturing precision
If high centripetal G force is applied continuously, then particle separation is enhanced, but substrate damage increases and cleaning performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action to alternate between high G-force phases (≥1G) that enhance particle separation and low G-force phases (<1G) that prevent substrate damage. During high G-force pulses, particles are propelled toward the drum wall for separation, while during low G-force intervals, the substrate is given rest periods to avoid excessive mechanical stress. This temporal distribution of high and low G-force exposure achieves effective particle separation while minimizing harmful effects on the substrate.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the G-force level variable rather than static. The system dynamically adjusts the drum rotation speed between high and low states during the separation cycle. The G-force transitions from ≥1G to <1G and back again in repeated cycles, creating a dynamic separation process that adapts between aggressive particle propulsion and gentle substrate handling phases.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple separation and rinsing cycles are implemented, then particle separation is improved, but total cycle time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action within each separation cycle, using repeated high and low G-force phases to achieve progressive particle separation. Multiple separation and rinsing cycles are condensed by applying intensive periodic G-force variations within each cycle, allowing the system to achieve the separation effect of multiple traditional cycles in less total time. The periodic high-G-force pulses efficiently propel particles toward the drum wall multiple times within each cycle, accelerating the separation process.
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
This approach achieves improved separation of solid particles from substrates while maintaining effective cleaning performance and shortening total cycle times, ensuring minimal residual particles on cleaned substrates.
Implementation Method 1
separating at least some of the solid particles from the substrate by rotating the composition
Implementation Method 2
rinsing the substrate with the liquid medium
Data Source
AI summary
A method for treating a substrate comprising the steps of: (i) rotating a composition comprising a liquid medium, the substrate and solid particles having a particle size of from 1 to 100 mm; (ii) separating at least some of the solid particles from the substrate; and (iii) rinsing the substrate; wherein: steps ii. and iii. are each performed at least twice and the first time steps ii and iii are conducted the sequence of steps is either i, ii, iii, ii or i, iii, ii, iii;and/or during the separation step ii. the composition is rotated for a first time period at a centripetal G force of <1 G and for a second time period at a centripetal force of >1 G and at least one of the first and second time periods is no longer than 60 seconds.