Manually-Operated Trailer Wash Apparatus with Adjustable Nozzles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current trailer washing systems are either expensive and complex, requiring automated installations, or labor-intensive and inconsistent when using hand-held sprayers, failing to efficiently clean trailers while minimizing operator fatigue and ensuring effective sanitation.
Innovation Solution
A manually operated trailer wash apparatus with a lightweight frame, high-pressure sprayer system, and adjustable nozzles that can be easily maneuvered to provide a high gallon per minute flow, reducing installation costs and operator effort while ensuring thorough cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If fully automated trailer washing devices are used, then cleaning efficiency and consistency are improved, but device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The washing apparatus is designed to be manually operated and moved by operators themselves without requiring complex automated positioning systems. The device includes its own water supply connections and nozzle systems that work effectively when manually positioned, eliminating the need for automated guidance infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential washing function from complex automated systems, keeping only the core components (nozzles, water supply, manual frame) while removing automated control systems, sensors, and complex installation requirements. This provides adequate cleaning capability without the overhead of full automation.
2Ease of manufacture
If hand-held pressure spray hoses are used, then installation cost is reduced, but labor intensity and washing inconsistency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple hand-held sprayers into a single integrated apparatus with a common water supply system and multiple nozzles positioned at optimal locations. This merging reduces the number of separate hoses and connections needed while providing coordinated washing coverage that reduces operator fatigue and improves consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus uses a high-pressure water supply system with multiple nozzles that deliver consistent pressure and flow to all washing points simultaneously. This hydraulic system ensures uniform washing performance across all surfaces without requiring multiple operators or repeated passes.
3Productivity
If high gallon per minute flow is provided, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but operator effort and fatigue increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from linear hand-held spraying to a multi-dimensional nozzle array that distributes water flow across multiple surfaces simultaneously from different angles and positions. This spatial distribution of washing function reduces the physical effort required per unit area cleaned while maintaining high overall cleaning effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed with flexible positioning capabilities that allow operators to easily adjust nozzle positions and angles during operation. This dynamic adaptability enables optimal washing coverage without requiring excessive physical effort to maintain proper positioning, reducing operator fatigue while preserving cleaning effectiveness.
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 solution provides a cost-effective, efficient, and labor-saving method for trailer sanitation, capable of cleaning trailers in a single pass with high-pressure washes and adjustable nozzles that maintain close proximity to the floor, alleviating operator fatigue and ensuring consistent cleaning.
Implementation Method 1
a high-pressure sprayer system, and adjustable nozzles that can be easily maneuvered to provide a high gallon per minute flow
Data Source
AI summary
A manually-operated trailer wash apparatus for washing an interior of a trailer includes a frame with a handle configured to be manually pushed by a human operator and front and rear wheels. Rotatable couplings are disposed between each of the wheels and the frame to rotate the wheels in response to the manual pushing of the handle. A conduit is coupled to the frame and extends transversely across a direction of travel of the apparatus. The conduit has a plurality of nozzles to pressure wash a surface on which the apparatus travels. The conduit receives pressurized fluid from a hose and pump system.