Wearable Stain Remover With Rotating Absorbent Pad Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing on-the-go stain removing devices fail to effectively lift and remove stains from clothing, often diluting or spreading them, and leave visible wet spots, while also being bulky, difficult to use, and lacking an ergonomic design.
Innovation Solution
A compact, ergonomic device with a fluid reservoir and a rotating absorbent pad mechanism that allows for efficient application and absorption of stain treatment fluid, reducing drying time and enhancing stain removal, featuring a valve assembly with a restrictive flow element and a porous flow restrictor for controlled fluid release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a stain removing formulation is applied to a stain on clothing, then the stain may be diluted or spread, but the stain remains clearly visible and embarrassing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the stain removing formulation application function with an absorbent pad function into a single integrated device. The absorbent pad is positioned to contact the treated area immediately after formulation application, allowing simultaneous stain treatment and absorption of excess fluid, preventing the stain from spreading while remaining effective
2Reliability
If a stain removing formulation is applied to treat a stain, then the stain may be lighter, but the user must walk around with a visible wet spot on clothing
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the formulation dispenser with an absorbent pad that immediately contacts the treated area. This combination allows the pad to absorb excess formulation and moisture while the treatment works, eliminating visible wet spots and allowing the user to wear the treated garment immediately without embarrassment
3Reliability
If an absorbent mechanism is added to a spot cleaning device, then excess fluid can be absorbed, but the device becomes bulkier and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the absorbent pad directly into the applicator body, merging two functions (application and absorption) into one unified structure. This eliminates the need for separate absorbent components or mechanisms, keeping the device compact and simple while maintaining effective absorption capability
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated absorbent pad serves multiple functions: absorbing excess formulation, absorbing moisture, and potentially providing a secondary cleaning action. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, simplifying the overall device structure
4Reliability
If a rotating absorbent pad mechanism is implemented, then fresh pads can be provided for each treatment, but the mechanism may become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a simple rotating mechanism that allows the user to easily rotate the absorbent pad to a fresh position when needed. This dynamic element provides a simple, intuitive way to access fresh absorbent surfaces without requiring complex mechanisms for pad replacement or advancement
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 device effectively removes stains by applying and absorbing the treatment fluid, reducing drying time and minimizing visible wet spots, while being compact and easy to use, addressing the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
a porous flow restrictor for controlled fluid release
Implementation Method 2
applies one of the absorbent pads against the moistened area to absorb, lift and/or remove the stain, excess stain removing formulation
Data Source
AI summary
A device for applying stain formulation to a garment or article of clothing while it is being worn is disclosed. The device includes a reservoir with a valve assembly for dispensing an effective stain removal formulation directly to the stain, spot or mark. The device also includes a shell accommodating absorbent pads. After the stain removal formulation is applied, an absorbent pad is pressed and/or rubbed on the stain to lift and remove the stain and to absorb or wick excess fluid thereby reducing the amount of time the resulting wet spot takes to dry. Effective stain removing formulations for on-the-go use are also disclosed.