Surface Cleaning Device Deodorizer Using Long Chain Fatty Acid

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing surface cleaning devices do not effectively manage odors during operation, particularly those caused by molecules containing sulfur, nitrogen, and carbonyl groups, and often require electrical power for odor control mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

Incorporation of a deodorizer using a long chain fatty acid, such as stearic acid, which is mechanically engaged with the cleaning element or the surface to release particles that neutralize malodors, without requiring continuous electrical power.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If electrical power is used for odor control mechanisms, then odor control effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and energy consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveodor control effectivenessVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces electrical power-based odor control mechanisms with a mechanically-driven system. The deodorizer is positioned to engage with the rotating brush roll, utilizing the mechanical rotation to distribute deodorizing particles onto the carpet surface without requiring electrical power for the odor control function itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The deodorizer system utilizes the existing mechanical energy from the brush roll rotation to perform its function. The brush roll's rotation automatically distributes the deodorizer particles onto the carpet, and the suction system naturally draws particles into the exhaust stream, eliminating the need for additional powered components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Use of energy by moving object

If deodorizer particles are released mechanically through brush roll engagement, then energy consumption is reduced, but particle release consistency may worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy consumptionVSAvoidparticle release consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The deodorizer is positioned at a specific location where it engages with the brush roll, creating a localized interaction zone. This positioning ensures that particles are released at the point of contact between the brush roll and deodorizer, providing consistent distribution through the mechanical action at that specific location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The system utilizes the dynamic rotation of the brush roll to distribute particles. The rotating motion creates varying contact points and pressures as the brush roll rotates, which helps distribute particles consistently across the carpet surface through the natural dynamics of the rotating mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Object-affected harmful factors

If deodorizer engages directly with carpet surface, then odor neutralization is improved, but risk of surface damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveodor neutralization effectivenessVSAvoidsurface damage risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The brush roll acts as an intermediary between the deodorizer and the carpet surface. Instead of the deodorizer contacting the carpet directly, the rotating brush roll picks up particles from the deodorizer and distributes them onto the carpet, mediating the interaction to prevent direct contact and potential damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the physical state and distribution method of deodorizer particles. By using the mechanical action of the brush roll, particles are transferred from a static deodorizer to a dynamic distribution process, allowing controlled deposition onto the carpet surface at reduced concentrations through the sweeping action.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 reduces malodors on surfaces like carpets by softening fibers and preventing static buildup, while being chemically stable and safe for human contact, without damaging surfaces or degrading over time.

Implementation Method 1

friction therebetween causes particles of the deodorizer (e.g., particles formed of long chain fatty acid molecules) to be released from the deodorizer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

particles of the deodorizer... neutralize malodors

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdsorption: Adsorption

Data Source

PatentUS12364374B2Surface cleaning device with odor control
Publication Date: 2025.07.22 SHARKNINJA OPERATING LLC
  • US12364374B2 patent drawing
  • US12364374B2 patent drawing
  • US12364374B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A surface cleaning device may include a nozzle, a dust cup, a suction motor configured to draw air into the nozzle and through the dust cup, and a first deodorizer coupled to the nozzle, the first deodorizer includes a deodorizing composition having a long chain fatty acid.