Surface Cleaning Apparatus Integrating Vacuum and Steam Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional surface cleaning apparatuses often require separate devices for vacuum and steam cleaning, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, and lack effective methods for simultaneously removing liquid and debris from surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A surface cleaning apparatus that integrates vacuum and steam cleaning capabilities, featuring a steam generation system, liquid distribution system, and vacuum collection system, allowing for simultaneous steam delivery and debris removal with a single device, utilizing a steam nozzle with a flexible seal and a cleaning pad that absorbs dirt and debris.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If separate vacuum and steam cleaning devices are used, then each device can perform its specific cleaning function effectively, but the overall cleaning efficiency decreases and the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines vacuum cleaning and steam cleaning functions into a single integrated cleaning device. The housing contains both a suction source with suction nozzle for vacuum cleaning and a steam generator with steam outlet for steam cleaning, allowing both functions to be performed by one device rather than requiring separate vacuum and steam cleaners
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning device is designed to perform multiple cleaning functions simultaneously or sequentially. The same device can switch between vacuum suction mode and steam generation mode, providing universal cleaning capability for different types of dirt and surfaces without requiring multiple specialized devices
2Productivity
If a steam nozzle is provided through the cleaning foot, then steam can be delivered effectively to the surface, but steam may leak into the foot structure causing potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible seal member positioned around the steam nozzle where it passes through the cleaning foot. This flexible seal creates a steam-tight barrier that prevents steam from leaking into the foot structure while still allowing the steam nozzle to deliver steam effectively to the cleaning surface
Solution Approach 2:
The seal member acts as an intermediary element between the steam nozzle and the cleaning foot structure. It mediates the passage of the steam nozzle through the foot by providing a sealing interface that blocks steam leakage paths while maintaining the structural integrity of the foot
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
Enables efficient and effective cleaning of surfaces by combining steam and vacuum functions, improving cleaning efficiency and convenience by removing dirt, dust, and stains while sanitizing surfaces with steam.
Implementation Method 1
a suction source for generating a suction force at a suction nozzle in contact with the surface to be cleaned
Implementation Method 2
The steam generator includes a heater for heating the liquid to produce steam
Implementation Method 3
The steam saturates the cleaning pad, and the damp cleaning pad is wiped across the surface to remove dirt, debris, and other soils present on the surface
Data Source
AI summary
A surface cleaning apparatus having a housing, a suction nozzle, a suction source, a steam port, a steam supply system, and a flexible seal. The housing having a cleaning foot and an upper housing operably coupled to the cleaning foot. The suction source being fluidly connected to the suction nozzle by a working air conduit. The steam port having an aperture provided in the cleaning foot. The steam supply system having a steam nozzle with at least a portion that projects through the steam port. The flexible seal being provided at least around the steam nozzle.