Automated Track-Based Cleaning System for Overhead Disinfection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current cleaning systems fail to effectively clean and disinfect surfaces from overhead regions of structures, vehicles, or buildings with minimal human intervention, as they lack automated systems for addressing air and surface-borne pathogens.
Innovation Solution
An automated cleaning system featuring a track or rail with a cylindrical body, adjustable nozzles, and a compartment for cleaning solution, which can be suspended overhead and programmed to operate with minimal human intervention, using a pump to direct the solution to surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an automated overhead cleaning system is implemented, then cleaning effectiveness and safety are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system is divided into modular components including a track system, cleaning head with nozzle array, solution reservoir, and control unit. Each module can be independently maintained and replaced, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining cleaning effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The overhead cleaning system is designed to perform multiple functions including disinfection, dust removal, and surface treatment using a single integrated platform. The adjustable nozzle array can handle different cleaning requirements, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If manual cleaning operations are performed, then device complexity is reduced, but human exposure to pathogens increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of having cleaning equipment move through fixed surfaces, the system inverts the approach by having surfaces move relative to a stationary cleaning head through the track system. This automation eliminates human exposure to pathogens while maintaining effective cleaning contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The track-based overhead system acts as an intermediary between the cleaning solution and surfaces, delivering disinfectants and cleaning agents without direct human contact. The automated mechanism mediates the interaction between cleaning chemicals and contaminated surfaces.
3Area of stationary object
If overhead cleaning access is provided, then cleaning coverage is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The overhead cleaning system operates autonomously along the track, automatically positioning itself and adjusting cleaning parameters without requiring complex manual operation. The system serves itself by following the predetermined track path and activating cleaning functions automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex manual positioning and operation with an automated track-guided mechanical system. The track infrastructure substitutes for manual navigation, providing precise overhead access while simplifying operation through automation rather than mechanical complexity.
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 system enables efficient and automated cleaning and disinfection of surfaces with reduced human risk, effectively addressing the challenge of airborne and surface-borne pathogens by providing a comprehensive and scheduled cleaning solution.
Implementation Method 1
The cleaning system can include a pump for directing the cleaning solution to the one or more nozzles
Data Source
AI summary
An automated cleaning system is disclosed having a track or rail, and a body having a cylindrical or capsule configuration. The cleaning system further includes a cleaning or disinfectant solution disposed within the body and one or more nozzles secured to one or more sides of the body for dispensing the cleaning solution. The cleaning system also includes one or more wheels or bearings secured to the body, wherein the wheels or bearings are at least partially received within the track. Further, the track can be suspended from overhead within a structure. Here, the cleaning system can be automated and programmed to operate during predefined schedules with little to no human intervention, thereby minimizing the risk associated with cleaning surfaces and open areas, among other advantages.