Surface cleaning apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional surface cleaning apparatuses lack flexibility and efficiency in handling different surface types and soiling levels, with limited options for adjusting fluid flow rates and using interchangeable nozzles and agitators to optimize cleaning performance.
Innovation Solution
The surface cleaning apparatus features a telescoping handle with a coiled electrical cable, multiple pumps providing variable flow rates, interchangeable nozzles and agitators, and a push-push valve for customizable cleaning fluid delivery, enabling efficient cleaning of various surfaces and soiling conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional surface cleaning apparatuses use fixed fluid delivery systems, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to different surface types and soiling levels is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements variable flow rate pumps that can dynamically adjust fluid delivery rates based on surface type and soiling conditions. The system transitions from fixed to adjustable flow rates, allowing the same apparatus to adapt to carpets, hard floors, and different levels of contamination without requiring multiple specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid delivery system is segmented into multiple independent pumps, each capable of operating at different flow rates. This segmentation allows selective activation of pumps based on cleaning requirements, providing versatility while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If surface cleaning apparatuses use fixed nozzle and agitator configurations, then the device structure is simple, but the cleaning performance optimization for different surfaces is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal mounting interfaces that allow different nozzle and agitator attachments to be interchangeably mounted on the same apparatus. This enables a single base unit to perform multiple cleaning functions across various surface types, achieving versatility without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
3Productivity
If surface cleaning apparatuses lack variable flow rate control, then the operating procedure is simple, but the efficiency in handling different soiling levels is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows operators to change the flow rate parameter of the pumps to match different soiling levels and surface types. By providing adjustable parameters rather than fixed operation, the system achieves higher cleaning efficiency while maintaining relatively simple operation through preset modes or straightforward controls.
4Adaptability or versatility
If telescoping handles use rigid electrical cables, then the cable structure is simple, but the flexibility in handle movement and storage is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rigid electrical cables with flexible coiled cables in the telescoping handle assembly. This allows the handle to extend and retract freely while the coiled cable accommodates the movement without tangling or damage, providing flexibility while keeping the cable management system relatively simple through the self-coiling mechanism.
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 configuration allows for tailored cleaning fluid delivery and efficient extraction on hard and soft surfaces, reducing operating time and improving cleaning performance by accommodating different surface types and soiling levels with interchangeable components.
Implementation Method 1
a coiled electrical cable provided within a portion of the telescoping handle and operably coupled to the power source, the coiled electrical cable configured to uncoil or coil when the telescoping handle is moved between the extended position and the contracted position
Implementation Method 2
a source of suction in fluid communication with the working air conduit to draw the cleaning fluid from the surface to be cleaned and through the nozzle and the working air conduit to the recovery tank
Data Source
AI summary
A surface cleaning apparatus having an upright assembly, a power source, and a coiled electrical cable. The upright assembly including a frame and a telescoping handle at last partially extending from the frame and movable between an extended position and a contracted position. The coiled electrical cable being provided within a portion of the telescoping handle and configured to uncoil or coil when the telescoping handle is moved between the extended position and the contracted position.