Surface cleaning device with triggerless fluid distribution mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surface cleaning devices, such as wet extractors, rely on user interaction to distribute cleaning solutions, leading to potential over or under application and user fatigue due to continuous trigger actuation.
Innovation Solution
A surface cleaning device with a controller and encoder system that automatically controls the distribution of cleaning solution based on the direction and speed of user-initiated movement, eliminating the need for continuous user interaction with the trigger.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If user directly activates distribution of cleaning solution via trigger or button, then user can control solution application, but user fatigue occurs during prolonged use and misestimation of solution amount happens
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the encoder to detect base movement and automatically controls the liquid distribution system without requiring user activation. The controller autonomously determines when to distribute solution based on movement detection, making the system self-regulating and eliminating continuous user interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical trigger system with an electronic control system comprising an encoder and controller. The encoder generates signals based on movement, and the controller processes these signals to automatically control the liquid distribution system, substituting manual mechanical operation with automated electronic control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If trigger mechanism is used for solution distribution control, then user has direct control, but continuous actuation leads to user fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically adapts to user needs by detecting movement through the encoder and autonomously controlling solution distribution. The controller monitors movement signals and adjusts distribution accordingly, making the system self-adapting without requiring continuous user input or trigger actuation.
3Extent of automation
If automated control system with encoder is implemented, then user fatigue is eliminated and solution distribution accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The encoder serves multiple functions: detecting base movement, determining movement direction, and providing signals for solution distribution control. The controller integrates multiple control functions including movement detection processing, distribution timing control, and amount regulation, making the system multi-functional despite the added automation components.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present invention relate to a triggerless extractor surface cleaning device for cleaning a surface in which a cleaning solution is distributed to the surface and extracted using suction along with dirt and/or debris on the surface in a continuous operation as the extractor moves along the surface. The extractor further comprises an encoder positioned adjacent a wheel of the extractor for detecting a rotational direction and speed of the wheel to generate a signal. Based on receiving the signal, a controller controls operation of a valve to situationally distribute the cleaning solution to the surface depending on a forward rotation of the wheel and independent of user actuation of a trigger positioned on a handle used to propel the extractor along the surface. Distribution of the cleaning solution can be further optimized based on the detected rotational speed of the wheel.