U.S. patent application number 11/159708 was filed with the patent office on 2006-12-28 for handheld mechanical soft-surface remediation (ssr) device and method of using same.
Invention is credited to MichaelM Sawalski.
Application Number | 20060288516 11/159708 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37052605 |
Filed Date | 2006-12-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060288516 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sawalski; MichaelM |
December 28, 2006 |
Handheld mechanical soft-surface remediation (SSR) device and
method of using same
Abstract
A handheld mechanical soft-surface remediation (SSR) device and
method of dislodging, displacing, and disposing of particulates
from surfaces and performing disinfection and/or freshening is
disclosed. The device is preferably lightweight, easy-to-use and
includes a fan assembly, filter assembly, flapper assembly, battery
assembly, and chemical delivery system. Performing soft-surface
remediation with the mechanical SSR device includes the steps of
retrieving the device from storage, installing the consumables into
the device, activating the device, performing the cleaning
operation, deactivating the device, removing the consumables from
device, preparing the device for the next use, storing the device
and, optionally, recharging the batteries.
Inventors: |
Sawalski; MichaelM; (Racine,
WI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
S.C. JOHNSON & SON, INC.
1525 HOWE STREET
RACINE
WI
53403-2236
US
|
Family ID: |
37052605 |
Appl. No.: |
11/159708 |
Filed: |
June 23, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
15/320 ;
15/344 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47L 5/26 20130101; A47L
25/005 20130101; A47L 9/122 20130101; A47L 13/40 20130101; A47L
9/04 20130101; A47L 13/36 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
015/320 ;
015/344 |
International
Class: |
A47L 5/24 20060101
A47L005/24; A47L 11/30 20060101 A47L011/30 |
Claims
1. A method of cleaning a soft surface comprising the steps of:
mechanically dislodging and displacing of particulates from a soft
surface with a handheld device having a slapper; disposing of the
particulates through use of filter in the device; and disinfecting
and freshening the surface with a sprayer containing connected to
the handheld device.
2. A handheld mechanical soft-surface remediation device comprising
a housing; a fan assembly within the housing; a filter assembly in
fluid communication with the fan assembly; a flapper assembly
within the housing; a battery assembly adjacent the housing; and a
delivery system operably connected to the housing.
3. A method of performing soft-surface remediation by use of the
mechanical device comprising the steps of: retrieving the device
from storage; installing the consumables into the device,
activating the device; performing the cleaning operation with a
flapper; deactivating the device; automatically activating chemical
delivery system without direct user activation; removing the
consumables from the device; preparing the device for the next use;
storing the device; and recharging the batteries of the device.
4. A handheld device comprising: a light-weight housing including a
large pickup area; a motor operably associated with the housing; a
dislodging mechanism driven by the motor for effectively performing
soft-surface remediation in a non-destructive manner; and a means
to introduce a cleaner onto a soft surface.
5. A cleaning device comprising: a housing; an ingredient delivery
mechanism operably associated with the housing for freshening,
disinfection; a flapper assembly in the housing; and a catch within
the housing for the removal of contaminants.
6. A method of performing soft-surface remediation including the
steps of: retrieving from storage from a battery charging position
a cleaning device having a body, an inlet, a displacement chamber,
exhaust ports and a handle; installing a consumable into the device
by opening a filter access mechanism within the body and installing
a new or cleaned filter; opening a supply access mechanism within
handle of body and inserting a new chemical supply; closing at
least one access mechanism; grasping a handle and bringing inlet of
the device into contact with a soft surface to be cleaned;
activating a fan motor to rotate a fan blade and create a flow of
air by drawing air into the inlet in body, through the displacement
chamber, through filter, past a fan assembly, and out the exhaust
ports at the rear of body; imparting motion to flapper motor to
rotate a shaft via a pulley and belt; rotating disks operably
attached to the shaft to cause flappers to move up and down;
slapping the flapper assembly on a surface to dislodge
particulates; moving inlet of device over the soft surface to be
cleaned by using a back-and-forth or side-to-side motion; cleaning
a surface by the action of flapper assembly and fan assembly;
displacing the particulates by a suction fan assembly to create an
airflow moving through displacement chamber; moving the
particulates toward a filter; capturing the particulates by a
filtering action of filter; using a spray pump; activating a
chemical delivery system to freshen or disinfect the surface;
deactivating the device by an on/off switch to stop fan motor and
flapper motor; opening the access mechanism for the filter within
body to remove the dirty filter; opening the supply access
mechanism within handle of body to remove the chemical supply and
recharge the supply; preparing the device for a next use; closing
all access mechanisms; and returning the device to its storage
location.
7. The device of claim 2, wherein the fan assembly includes a fan
motor and a fan blade, wherein the fan motor includes one of a
single-speed or multi-speed AC or DC motor, wherein the fan
assembly is capable of developing a suction pressure of -0.15 to
-0.66 pounds per square inch, wherein the filter assembly includes
a filter and a collection tray, wherein the filter assembly
includes a consumable non-woven portion or electrostatic cloth
positioned in close proximity to fan blade.
8. The device of claim 2, wherein the filter is at least one of a
standard mesh high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter or HAF
filter.
9. The device of claim 2, further comprising a collection tray
positioned near a lower region of a filter in the filter assembly
in order to capture particles that will not lodge within
filter.
10. The device of claim 2, wherein the filter assembly comprising a
filter and a collection tray that are mechanically integrated for
ease of access by a user.
11. The device of claim 2, wherein the flapper assembly includes a
set of flappers that are arranged parallel to one another and
spaced apart to ensure a small air gap therebetween.
12. The device of claim 2, wherein the flapper assembly includes a
plurality of flappers that are formed of a rigid lightweight
material and include a plurality of holes.
13. The device of claim 2, wherein the flapper assembly includes
flappers formed of spring steel; a disk mechanically coupled to a
flapper via an arm; a pulley mounted at one end of a shaft and
driven by a flapper motor via a standard belt; and a flapper motor
that is at least one of a DC motor, an AC motor, a single-speed
motor, and a multi-speed motor.
14. The device of claim 2, wherein the flapper assembly includes a
flapper that is a solid piece of material that has no holes; the
flappers are attached at one end to a spring-loaded flapper hinge;
the flapper hinge is mechanically attached in close proximity to
the filter assembly; the hinge provides a pivot point for the
flapper; the spring-loaded hinge provides an appropriate spring
force; the flapper assembly includes a set of disks that are
arranged along a shaft; and the flapper disks are oriented
orthogonal to the flappers and are mechanically coupled to flappers
via a set of arms.
15. The device of claim 2, wherein when activated, a flapper motor
imparts rotational motion to a shaft and, subsequently, to
disks.
16. The device of claim 2, wherein the flapper assembly includes a
plurality of disks, and wherein each disk has one or more notches
into which a curved end of an arm is alternately engaged and
disengaged as each disk rotates.
17. The device of claim 2, wherein the flapper assembly includes a
plurality of disks are mounted on a shaft such that the notches are
in alignment one to another, and wherein at least one disk is
mounted on shaft such that its notches are 90 degrees out of phase
with those of the other disks.
18. The device of claim 2, further comprising a displacement
chamber bounded on two sides by inner walls of a housing body and,
on an upper side near disks by an airflow guide.
19. The device of claim 2, wherein the delivery system includes a
chemical supply fluidly connected to a spray pump mounted within a
handle in the housing; wherein the flapper assembly includes a
flapper that slaps against a soft surface to be cleaned and
dislodges particles of contaminants within its fibers in a
non-destructive manner.
20. The device of claim 5, further including a piston mechanism
arranged orthogonally to a plane of an inlet; wherein the piston
mechanism is driven to impart an up and down motion to a flat
paddle element that is oriented parallel to the plane of inlet for
producing a slapping motion upon the soft surface to be remediated.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to an apparatus for
soft-surface remediation (SSR). In particular, this invention
relates to a handheld mechanical SSR device for dislodging,
displacing, and disposing of particulates from soft-surfaces and
for performing disinfection and/or freshening.
[0003] 2. Discussion of the Related Art
[0004] Indoor air is a very good transport mechanism for airborne
particles or contaminants, such as dust and allergens. Dust is
generally characterized as including, for example, soot, pet
dander, skin flakes, carpet fibers, dust mite feces, hair, and
lint. Allergens are generally characterized as including, for
example, dust mites, pet dander, mold/mildew, pollen, and
germs/bacteria. For energy efficiency reasons, modern homes are
constructed to be as air-tight as possible, which has the adverse
effect of creating an environment of poor indoor air quality,
because it takes a significant amount of time to circulate air into
and out of a room. Consequently, airborne contaminants remain
circulating in the air and, over time, may land on hard and soft
surfaces in the home. Hard surfaces are, for example, floors,
counter tops, and the wooden, metal, or glass components of
furniture. By contrast, soft surfaces are, for example, upholstery,
carpets, mattresses, and drapes.
[0005] Soft surfaces are typically formed by a number of strands of
thread or fiber that are woven together in a specific pattern to
form a thick surface. Alternatively, the fiber may be in the form
of a thin, non-woven mesh. However, most furniture upholstery is of
the woven type. Airborne particles become lodged in between the
weave of the fibers and onto the fibers themselves. A common
structure of upholstered furniture is outer woven fabric atop a
thin layer of batting material, which is atop a thick inner foam
that provides firmness for, for example, supporting a person's
weight. The vast majority of contaminants reside within the weave
of the surface fabric or on the batting material of the upholstered
item. The surface of the outer woven fabric becomes a collection
area for crumbs, hair, dust, lint, and stains. In particular, hair,
dust, lint, and dust mite feces become lodged between the surface
fabric weave. The batting material becomes a repository for hair,
dust mites, dust mite feces, and mold/mildew spores. Finally,
mold/mildew spores, bacteria, and germs are commonly found on the
surface of the inner foam.
[0006] Technical challenges exist with regard to SSR, which as used
herein is any treatment to relieve, prevent, or cure the adverse
effects of contaminants that collect thereon. There are generally
four components of soft-surface remediation that may be defined as
follows: (1) dislodging, which is the act of freeing dust, dirt,
hair, etc., from or near the surface, (2) displacing, which is the
act of moving dust, dirt, hair, etc., to a containment mechanism
after it has been dislodged, (3) disposing, which is the act of
capturing the contaminants via a containment mechanism, and (4)
disinfecting/freshening, which is the act of applying a treatment
to control dust mites, bacteria, mold, etc. or, alternatively, to
remove odors or otherwise improve the scent or perceived
"freshness" of the soft surface.
[0007] A vacuum cleaner is a well-known household item used for
cleaning. A typical vacuum cleaner consists of a suction fan driven
by a motor and a suction nozzle with a rotating brush that has a
beating effect (for dislodging) on the surface to be cleaned, such
as a carpet. Vacuum cleaners exist in various forms, such as a
canister type or upright type of design. Both types of vacuum
cleaners have considerable weight and are, therefore, cumbersome to
use. Additionally, typical canister or upright vacuum cleaners are
corded, which limits their easy accessibility to some areas of the
home. In particular, standard vacuum cleaners are too cumbersome
for use on soft surfaces, such as furniture upholstery, mattresses,
and drapes. Furthermore, the mechanical dislodging mechanism of
standard vacuum cleaners are destructive the fabric itself.
[0008] Alternatively, handheld portable vacuum cleaners exist in
the market today, such as the DustBuster.RTM. handheld vacuum
manufactured by Black & Decker (Towson, Md.). However, handheld
portable vacuum cleaners do not include a dislodging mechanism;
they use vacuum power only. Consequently, handheld portable vacuum
cleaners are not powerful enough to clean to any sufficient depth
and, thus, only the surface is cleaned. In particular, handheld
portable vacuum cleaners are not effective in removing hair, as
hair is difficult to remove, because of the static cling to fabrics
and the entanglement into the weave of the fabric itself. What is
needed is a handheld SSR device that has a dislodging mechanism for
effectively performing soft-surface remediation, but in a
non-destructive manner. Additionally, handheld portable vacuum
cleaners have a small opening, so the user must operate the device
slowly over the surface to be cleaned, in order for it to work
effectively. Furthermore, what is needed is a handheld mechanical
apparatus that has a large pickup area, in order to reduce the
cleaning time.
[0009] A chemical, e.g., a cleaner, or another ingredient is
sometimes desired for freshening, disinfection, or for assisting in
the removal of contaminants from a soft surface. It is difficult to
introduce chemistry to the surface to be cleaned by use of a
standard vacuum cleaner or a handheld portable vacuum cleaner, as
neither includes a chemical delivery system. The consumer must,
therefore, resort to a separate device for applying a chemical or
fluid, which means that the consumer is spending additional time
performing separate cleaning, freshening, and disinfecting
operations. What is needed is a more effective and efficient way to
introduce a fluid or other material onto a soft surface by use of a
low-powered, light-weight, handheld mechanical apparatus and,
therefore, reduce the overall time for performing cleaning,
freshening, and disinfecting operations.
[0010] As a preventative measure, frequent touchup cleaning is
beneficial to soft surfaces for delaying more involved and
destructive deep-cleaning events. Generally, upholstery does not
get as dirty when frequent touchups are performed, as compared with
relying on occasional deep cleaning. However, consumers tend not to
do touchup cleaning, because existing soft-surface touchup cleaning
approaches are not very effective. Deep cleaning is effective, but
very laborious and requires powerful tools, chemistry, and energy.
Furthermore, the more effective the deep-cleaning event, the more
damaging it is to the soft surface. What is needed is an
easy-to-use, convenient mechanism for performing touchup cleaning
that encourages frequent use and, thus, minimizes the need for
deep-cleaning events.
[0011] The disclosures of all of the below-referenced prior United
States patents, and applications, in their entireties are hereby
expressly incorporated by reference into the present application
for purposes including, but not limited to, indicating the
background of the present invention and illustrating the state of
the art.
[0012] U.S. Patent Application No. 20040172769, "Method and
apparatus for cleaning fabrics, floor coverings, and bare floor
surfaces utilizing a soil transfer cleaning medium," invented by
Daniel G. Giddings (Holland, Mich.), Frederick A. Hekman (Holland,
Mich.), Richard W. Wellens (Plymouth, Minn.), and Larry D. Wydra
(Plymouth, Minn.), describes an apparatus and method for cleaning
fabrics, floor coverings, and bare floor surfaces utilizing a soil
transfer cleaning medium. A method of mechanically removing soil
from a surface intended to be cleaned includes the steps of
successively and repeatedly: wetting a portion of a cleaning medium
with a cleaning liquid; extracting any soil and at least some of
the cleaning liquid from the previously wetted portion of the
cleaning medium; and wiping the surface intended to be cleaned with
the portion of the cleaning medium so as to transfer soil from the
surface intended to be cleaned to the cleaning medium. Portable and
vehicle-based devices may be utilized to practice the method of
cleaning.
[0013] U.S. Patent Application No. 20020104184, "Portable vacuum
cleaning apparatus," invented by Alma L. Rogers (Stockridge, Ga.)
and Dietrich Hoecht (Loganville, Ga.), describes a portable vacuum
cleaning apparatus intended to be carried either on a single
shoulder or worn backpack style, wherein the vacuum cleaner has an
extensible tube and nozzle arrangement that may be held
substantially fully enclosed in the vacuum cleaner case, wherein
the hose or wand may be collapsed when not in use to prevent
entanglement, or may be incrementally extended and secured in a
desired position for use. Additional advantages of the present
invention include a suspension arrangement for flexibly suspending
the internal components of the vacuum and for providing a moment to
counteract the force and movement of the wand.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 6,746,166, "Apparatus for cleaning a surface,"
assigned to Art Center College of Design (Pasadena, Calif.),
describes an apparatus for efficiently cleaning stains and
extracting cleaning fluid from surfaces such as carpets and
upholstery without requiring electrical power is presented. The
invention eliminates the inconvenience of retrieving, filling with
cleaning fluid, and plugging a deep cleaner into an electrical
outlet in order to remove a small spot from a carpet. In addition
to the scrubbing and fluid extracting capabilities, embodiments of
the invention include a sprayer for applying cleaning fluid to
stains. The sprayer may receive fluid from an attached refillable
reservoir of cleaning solution, for example. During scrubbing, the
top of a pump actuator provides a resting place for the heel of a
user's palm. The pump actuator may be locked down when scrubbing
and unlocked for pumping to suck up fluid. A piston in a chamber
provides the suction force for pulling fluid up through tubules,
which may be interspersed between bristle tufts, past check valves
and into a waste reservoir. A downward force on the piston provides
the suction thereby assuring that the tubules are in contact with
the surface during suction. The waste reservoir may be dumped via a
plug in the waste reservoir.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 5,604,953, "Vacuum cleaner," assigned to
Aktiebolaget Electrolux (Stockholm, SE), describes vacuum cleaner
including a unit, comprising an electric motor and an associated
suction fan, and a suction nozzle (36) connected to the inlet side
of the unit via a dust separating device (15), either directly or
via a connectable rigid conduit (13). The vacuum cleaner comprises
a handheld unit (10) which when not in use is arranged to be
positioned on a stationary storage unit (11), said handheld unit
(10) incorporating the said unit and the dust separating device
(15) and being provided with a coupling means (12) for connecting
of the rigid conduit (13). For power supply purposes, by means of
an extensible flex (26), the handheld unit (10) is connected to the
storage unit (11) which via an additional flex (39) is connectable
to a mains outlet.
[0016] U.S. Pat. No. 5,551,122, "Corded handheld vacuum cleaner,"
assigned to Electrolux Corporation (Atlanta, Ga.), describes a
handheld vacuum cleaner that has a motor mounted with the
rotational axis of its shaft parallel to the rotational axis of the
rotating brush. The vacuum cleaner motor has an end bell, which is
attached to the motor stator, and which holds a motor shaft
bearing. The end bell is secured to the vacuum housing with an
elastomeric mounting ring to dampen motor vibrations. The need for
most motor mounting hardware is eliminated, because the housing
supports the motor stator directly. The intake orifice of the
vacuum is shaped to lie in two distinct planes, so that flat
cleaning surfaces do not obstruct the orifice. The shape of the
intake also allows one to clean immediately adjacent to a vertical
wall.
[0017] World Intellectual Property Organization Application No.
WO8301734, "Dust remover for removing dust, hair, or other loose
particles from objects such as clothes, textiles, furniture, etc.,"
describes a dust remover for removing dust, hair or other loose
particles from the surface of objects such as clothes, textiles,
furniture etc comprising a substantially cylindrical roller (1)
which is rotatably supported on a holder, the peripheral surface of
said roller being provided with an adhesive layer (6) for removing
said dust particles etc by adhesion when the roller (1) is brought
into rolling contact with the surface of the object to be cleaned.
The dust remover comprises a divided casing, the casing parts (7,
11) being movable in relation to each other by relative rotational
movement between a position in which the casing parts (7, 11)
completely enclose the roller (1), and a position in which the
roller (1) is partly exposed for enabling rolling contact with the
object to be cleaned. The casing parts (7, 11) are arranged for
relative rotational movement about an axis that is parallel to, and
preferably coaxial with the rotational axis of the roller (1).
[0018] Also incorporated by reference herein is the disclosure
contained in U.S. application Ser. No. 11/090,438 entitled
"SOFT-SURFACE REMEDIATION DEVICE AND METHOD OF USING SAME" and
assigned to S.C. Johnson & Sons, Inc.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0019] It is therefore an aspect of the invention to provide a
handheld SSR device that has a dislodging mechanism for effectively
performing soft-surface remediation in a non-destructive
manner.
[0020] It is another aspect of this invention to provide a
low-powered, light-weight, handheld mechanical SSR device that has
a large pickup area, in order to reduce the cleaning time.
[0021] It is yet another aspect of this invention to provide a more
effective and efficient way to introduce a chemistry, fluid or
cleaner onto a soft surface by use of a low-powered, light-weight,
handheld mechanical SSR device.
[0022] It is yet another aspect of this invention to provide a
low-powered, light-weight, handheld mechanical SSR device having a
slapping mechanism, a dispenser, and a filter that reduces the time
required for cleaning, freshening, and disinfecting soft
surfaces.
[0023] It is yet another aspect of this invention to provide an
easy-to-use, convenient mechanism that encourages consumers to
perform touchup cleaning events more frequently.
[0024] Various consumables may aid the device of the present
invention in this purpose, for example, disposable filters,
scrubbing members, cleaning heads, and various other cleaning
materials or fluids. For example, compositions for refreshing
fabrics, stain removal and antibacterial control may also be
provided.
[0025] These and other aspects of the present invention will be
better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction
with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It
should be understood, however, that the following description,
while indicating preferred embodiments of the present invention, is
given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes
and modifications may be made within the scope of the present
invention without departing from the spirit thereof, and the
invention includes all such modifications.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] A clear conception of the advantages and features
constituting the present invention, and of the construction and
operation of typical mechanisms provided with the present
invention, will become more readily apparent by referring to the
exemplary, and therefore non-limiting, embodiments illustrated in
the drawings accompanying and forming a part of this specification,
wherein like reference numerals designate the same elements in the
several views, and in which:
[0027] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of the internal
elements of a mechanical SSR device in accordance with a first
embodiment of the invention.
[0028] FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of the mechanical SSR device
of the first embodiment of the invention.
[0029] FIG. 1C illustrates a bottom view of the mechanical SSR
device of the first embodiment of the invention.
[0030] FIG. 2 illustrates a flow diagram of a method of performing
soft-surface remediation by use of the mechanical SSR device of the
present invention.
[0031] FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of the internal
elements of a mechanical SSR device in accordance with a second
embodiment of the invention.
[0032] FIG. 3B illustrates a side view of the mechanical SSR device
of the second embodiment of the invention.
[0033] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention that
is illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be
resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, it is not intended
that the invention be limited to the specific terms so selected and
it is to be understood that each specific term includes all
technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to
accomplish a similar purpose. For example, the word connected or
terms similar thereto are often used. They are not limited to
direct connection but include connection through other elements
where such connection is recognized as being equivalent by those
skilled in the art.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0034] The present invention and the various features and
advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with
reference to the non-limiting embodiments described in detail in
the following description.
[0035] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "cleaning" or
"cleaned" is broadly expanded to include operations associated with
soft-surface remediation (SSR). The materials used for further
cleaning may include cleaning chemicals, odor eliminators, stain
removal, fabric protectors, fresheners, and disinfectants all of
which may be in the form of liquids, gases, solids, gels,
substrates and/or powders or combinations thereof.
1. System Overview
[0036] The present invention is a handheld mechanical SSR device
for, and method of, dislodging, displacing, and disposing of
particulates from soft surfaces, such as upholstery. The handheld
mechanical SSR device of the present invention effectively performs
soft-surface remediation in a non-destructive manner, is
low-powered and light-weight, has as large pickup area for
providing a faster cleaning operation, provides a chemical delivery
mechanism for freshening, disinfection, or assisting in the removal
of contaminants, and provides an easy-to-use, convenient mechanism
that encourages consumers to perform touchup cleaning events more
frequently. For the purposes of this disclosure the term "cleaning"
or "cleaned" is broadly expanded to include operations associated
with SSR.
2. Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments
[0037] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of the internal
elements of a mechanical SSR device 100 in accordance with a first
embodiment of the invention. Preferably, mechanical SSR device 100
includes a fan assembly 110, a filter assembly 112, a flapper
assembly 114, and a battery assembly 116.
[0038] In this embodiment, fan assembly 110 further preferably
includes a fan motor 120, which is a standard 5 to 24 volt DC motor
or 120 Volt AC motor capable of 1000 to 30000 rotations per minute
(RPMs) and a fan blade 122, which is a standard lightweight fan
blade formed of, for example, molded plastic. Fan motor 120 may be
either a single-speed or multi-speed AC or DC motor. An example of
fan motor 120 is Mabuchi Motor RS-540SH/SF-5045. Fan assembly 110
is preferably capable of developing a suction pressure of -0.15 to
-0.66 pounds per square inch (PSI). However, other fans with
similar characteristics are contemplated.
[0039] Filter assembly 112 further includes a filter 130 and a
collection tray 132. Filter 130 is a consumable non-woven filter or
electrostatic cloth positioned in close proximity to fan blade 122.
Filter 130 can be a standard high efficiency particulate air (HEPA)
filter or a high airflow filter (HAF) filter available from 3M.
Collection tray 132 is positioned at the lower region of filter
130, in order to capture large or heavy particles that will not
lodge within filter 130 because the suction force is limited.
Additionally, when fan motor 120 is turned off and the suction
stops, some particles will drop from filter 130 and into collection
tray 132. Filter 130 and collection tray 132 are mechanically
integrated such that both may be easily accessed by the user, in
order to remove and replace filter 130 and for emptying collection
tray 132. In another embodiment, the filter and the collection tray
may be incorporated into the same device. This device may be
disposable.
[0040] Flapper assembly 114 is preferably a mechanical,
surface-slapping mechanism. The assembly 114 preferably includes a
set of slappers or flappers 140, such as a flapper 140a, 140b, and
140c, as shown in FIG. 1A, that are arranged parallel to one
another and spaced apart, in order to ensure a small air gap
therebetween. Flappers 140a, 140b, and 140c are preferably formed
of rigid lightweight material, such as spring steel, and include a
plurality of holes 142. Alternatively, each flapper 140 is a solid
piece of material that has no holes 142. In one embodiment,
flappers may have a sticky surface or tape on them for catching
debris that is freed from the soft surface. Such a tape may be
removable and disposed of after capturing debris. This consumable
material will need to be replaced before a new cleaning project is
started. In another embodiment, protrusions may be added to the
flappers either on the tape materials or on the flapper.
[0041] Flappers 140a, 140b, and 140c are attached at one end to a
spring-loaded hinge 112, which is mechanically attached in close
proximity to filter assembly 114. Spring-loaded hinge 144 provides
a pivot point for flappers 140a, 140b, and 140c. Spring-loaded
hinge 144 also provides an appropriate spring force.
[0042] Flapper assembly 114 further includes a set of disks 146
that are arranged along a shaft 148. Disks 146 are oriented
orthogonal to flappers 140 and are mechanically coupled to flappers
140 via a set of arms 150. More specifically, a disk 146a is
mechanically coupled to flapper 140a via an arm 150a, a disk 146b
is mechanically coupled to flapper 140b via an arm 150b, and a disk
146c is mechanically coupled to flapper 140c via an arm 150c. A
standard pulley 152 that is mounted at one end of shaft 148 is
driven by a flapper motor 154 via a standard belt 156.
Spring-loaded hinge 144, disks 146, shaft 148, arms 150, and pulley
152 are formed of a rigid lightweight material, such as molded
plastic or aluminum.
[0043] Flapper motor 154 is preferably a standard 5 to 24 volt DC
motor or a 120 volt AC motor capable of 1000 to 30000 RPMs. Flapper
motor 154 may be either a single-speed or a multi-speed DC motor.
An example flapper motor 154 is a Johnson Electric HC613G, however,
there are a wide range of suitable motors available. When
activated, flapper motor 154 imparts rotational motion to shaft 148
and, subsequently, to disks 146.
[0044] Each disk 146 has one or more notches 158, into which a
curved end of its respective arm 150 is alternately engaged and
disengaged as each disk 146 rotates. In one example, disk 146a and
disk 146c are mounted on shaft 148 such that their notches 158 are
in alignment one to another, while disk 146b is mounted on shaft
148 such that its notches 158 are 90 degrees out of phase with
those of disk 146a and disk 146c. However, disk 146a, 146b, and
146c may be mounted with their notches 158 in any user-desired
orientation.
[0045] If the embodiment is battery powered, the battery assembly
116 preferably further includes a plurality of batteries 160, which
are standard rechargeable or non-rechargeable 1.5 to 9 volt
batteries that are electrically connected in series to provide a DC
voltage source of 5 to 24 volts to fan motor 120 and flapper motor
152. Alternatively, the device may be corded and operate via an AC
voltage source.
[0046] FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of mechanical SSR device
100, which shows that mechanical SSR device 100 further includes a
body 170 formed of a rigid lightweight material, such as molded
plastic, that houses fan assembly 110, filter assembly 112, flapper
assembly 114, and battery assembly 116. Molded within body 170 is a
handle 172; an opening in that lower region of body 170 forms an
inlet 174. Additionally, a displacement chamber 176 is formed from
inlet 174 of mechanical SSR device 100 and leads to filter 130.
Displacement chamber 176 is bounded on two sides by the inner walls
of body 170 and, on an upper side near disks 146, by an airflow
guide 178, which is formed of, for example, molded plastic.
[0047] FIG. 1B shows that mechanical SSR device 100 further
includes a delivery system 180 that preferably includes a chemical
supply 182, which is fluidly connected to a spray pump 184, both of
which are mounted within handle 172. Spray pump 182 is fluidly
connected to a spray nozzle 186 via a tube 188. Spray nozzle 186 is
mounted in the forward region of body 170 in close proximity to
inlet 174. Chemical supply 182 is representative of, for example, a
consumable aerosol or liquid canister that contains a substance for
freshening, disinfection, or assisting in the removal of
contaminants, such as the Oust.RTM. Bathroom Air Sanitizer canister
manufactured by SC Johnson & Son, Inc (Racine, Wis.). Spray
pump 184 is, for example, a manual pump mechanism that has a button
that may be manipulated easily by the user's thumb as the user
grasps handle 172. Spray nozzle 186 is the spray outlet for
directing the chemical onto the soft surface to be cleaned. Spray
nozzle 186 maximizes dispersion and creates very small particles,
in order to ensure that the chemistry is properly applied onto, but
does not soak, the soft surface. While a fluid cleaner is
preferred, it is possible the material dispensed may be a foam, or
a powder.
[0048] With reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B, those skilled in the art
will recognize that standard mechanical mounting structures exist
within body 170 of mechanical SSR device 100 for securing fan
assembly 110, filter assembly 112, flapper assembly 114, battery
assembly 116, and chemical delivery system 180 but, for simplicity,
are not shown.
[0049] FIG. 1C illustrates a bottom view of mechanical SSR device
100, which shows the position of flappers 140 in relation to inlet
174. Inlet 174 is the contaminant pickup area for cleaning a soft
surface and also as the air intake port for mechanical SSR device
100, through which air is drawn by the action of fan assembly 110.
A set of exhaust ports (not shown) are present within body 170 in
close proximity to fan assembly 110. An example dimension of each
flapper 140 is 50 to 250 mm long, 20 to 50 mm wide and 3 to 7 mm
thick. Holes 142 of each flapper 140 have a diameter of 1 to 7 mm.
Note these holes allow dust and dirt that are under the flapper to
flow into the body of the unit and then eventually be sucked into
the filter. An example dimension of inlet 174 is 1.times.50 mm. A
distance from the end of flappers 140 to the front edge of inlet
174 is typically between 1 and 40 mm. The surface area of each
flapper 140 that extends into the area of inlet 174 is, for
example, 25.times.100 mm. Flappers 140 are spaced apart a small
distance of, for example, 3 to 10 mm, in order to ensure a small
air gap therebetween. Alternatively, a mesh screen or wire material
may be used to form the flappers, e.g., in a tennis racket-like
configuration.
[0050] With reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, the overall
dimensions of mechanical SSR device 100 are, for example, a length
of between 20 and 40 cm, a width of between 12 and 20 cm, and a
height of between 9 and 15 cm. Additionally, an example weight of
mechanical SSR device 100 is between 0.9 and 2.0 kg. The overall
dimensions and weight of mechanical SSR device 100 are not limited
to those stated above, so long as they are practically suited to an
ergonomically correct handheld portable device.
[0051] With continuing reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, the
operation of mechanical SSR device 100 is as follows. A clean
filter 130 and a full chemical supply 182 are installed within body
170 of mechanical SSR device 100. Mechanical SSR device 100 is
activated by a standard on/off switch (not shown) that makes an
electrical connection between the output voltage of battery
assembly 116, fan motor 120, and flapper motor 154. As a result,
fan blade 122 rotates and creates a flow of air of between 25 and
50 cubic feet per minute (CFM), by drawing air into inlet 174 in
body 170, through displacement chamber 176, through filter 130,
past fan assembly 110, and exiting the air through the exhaust
ports at the rear of body 170. At the same time, flapper motor 154
imparts rotational motion to shaft 148 via pulley 152 and belt 156.
Consequently, disks 146a, 146b, and 146c are rotating, which causes
one end of flappers 140a, 140b, and 140c, respectively, to slap up
and down. More specifically, and using flapper 140a as an example,
as disk 146a rotates, the curved end of arm 150a is alternately
engaged and disengaged from one or more notches 158. When the
curved end of arm 150a is engaged within a notch 158, it is lifted
upward momentarily, which causes the end of flapper 140a that is
attached to arm 150a also to lift upward momentarily. In doing so,
flapper 140a pivots upward at an angle away from the plane of inlet
174, with spring-loaded hinge 144 as the pivot point. As disk 146a
continues to rotate, the curved end of arm 150a disengages
eventually from within a notch 158, which causes arm 150a and
flapper 140a to return to alignment with the plane of inlet 174,
because of the action of spring-loaded hinge 144 and gravity. In
doing so, flapper 140a slaps against the soft surface to be cleaned
and dislodges particles of contaminants within its fibers in a
non-destructive manner. This lifting and releasing of flapper 140a
continues in an alternating fashion as disk 146a rotates. As the
particles are kicked away from the soft surface because of the
action of flapper 140a, they are caught in the airflow within
displacement chamber 176 and move toward filter 130. Small
particles are trapped within filter 130, while particles that are
too heavy or too large to be trapped within filter 130 hit the
surface of filter 130 and then fall into collection tray 132. Clean
filtered air then exits mechanical SSR device 100. Flappers 140b
and 140c operate identically. However, the slapping action of
flappers 140a, 140b, and 140c may be such that they each make
contact with the soft surface at different times. Additionally, the
repetition rate of flappers 140a, 140b, and 140c, which is
determined by the rotational speed of shaft 148 and the diameter of
disks 146, is, for example, between 1 and 10 repetitions/second. As
a result, particles of contaminants are dislodged in a
non-destructive manner, displaced, and then disposed of.
Optionally, by use of spray pump 184, the user may activate
chemical delivery system 180 during the use of mechanical SSR
device 100 and, thereby, provide a freshening or disinfection
operation, in combination with the removal of contaminants. Upon
completion of the cleaning operation, mechanical SSR device 100 is
deactivated, filter 130 is cleaned or replaced, collection tray 132
is emptied and, if necessary, chemical supply 182 is
replenished.
[0052] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the
implementation of flapper assembly 114 as shown and described in
FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C is but one example. Any number of well-known
mechanical arrangements is possible for causing a slapping motion
of a mechanical element upon the soft surface to be cleaned and,
thus, mechanical SSR device 100 is not limited to the specific
flapper assembly 114 design disclosed herein. For example, flapper
assembly 114 with flappers 140 may be replaced by one or more
piston mechanisms arranged orthogonally to the plane of inlet 174.
A piston mechanism is driven to impart an up and down motion to a
flat paddle element that is oriented parallel to the plane of inlet
174 for producing a slapping motion upon the soft surface to be
remediated.
[0053] FIG. 2 illustrates a flow diagram of one preferred method
200 of performing soft-surface remediation by use of mechanical SSR
device 100 of the present invention. Method 200 preferably includes
first the step 210 of retrieving SSR device from storage. In this
step, a user retrieves mechanical SSR device 100 from its storage
location (which may be a battery recharging device). Method 200
proceeds to step 212, the step of installing consumables into SSR
device. In this step, the user opens the access mechanism for
filter 130 within body 170 and installs a new or cleaned filter
130. If necessary, the user opens the access mechanism for chemical
supply 182 within handle 172 of body 170 and installs a new
chemical supply 182. After installing filter 130 and/or chemical
supply 182, the user closes all access mechanisms. Method 200
proceeds to step 214, the step of activating SSR device. In this
step, the user activates mechanical SSR device 100 by a standard
on/off switch and, thereby, activates fan motor 120 and flapper
motor 154. As a result, fan blade 122 rotates and creates a flow of
air by drawing air into inlet 174 in body 170, through displacement
chamber 176, through filter 130, past fan assembly 110, and out the
exhaust ports at the rear of body 170. At the same time, flapper
motor 154 imparts rotational motion to shaft 148 via pulley 152 and
belt 156. Consequently, disks 146a, 146b, and 146c are rotating,
which causes flappers 140a, 140b, and 140c, respectively, to slap
up and down. Method 200 proceeds to step 216.
[0054] Step 216 is the step of performing the cleaning operation.
In this step, the user grasps handle 172 and brings inlet 174 of
mechanical SSR device 100 into contact with a soft surface to be
cleaned, such as upholstery, and, subsequently, moves inlet 174 of
mechanical SSR device 100 over the soft surface to be cleaned by
using any back-and-forth or side-to-side motion, until the entire
surface has been cleaned by the action of flapper assembly 114 and
fan assembly 110. More specifically, the slapping action of flapper
assembly 114 dislodges the particulates, the suction action of fan
assembly 110 displaces the particulates by the airflow moving
through displacement chamber 176 and toward filter 130, and the
filtering action of filter 130 captures the particulates.
Optionally, by use of spray pump 184, the user may activate
chemical delivery system 180 and, thereby, provide a freshening or
disinfection operation, in combination with the removal of
contaminants. Alternatively, chemical delivery system 180 is
automatically activated without direct user activation. Method 200
proceeds to step 218, the step of deactivating SSR device. In this
step, the user deactivates mechanical SSR device 100 by a standard
on/off switch, which deactivates fan motor 120 and flapper motor
154. Method 200 proceeds to step 220.
[0055] Step 220 is the step of removing consumables from SSR
device. In this step, the user opens the access mechanism for
filter 130 within body 170 and removes the dirty filter 130. If
necessary, the user opens the access mechanism for chemical supply
182 within handle 172 of body 170 and removes chemical supply 182.
Method 200 proceeds to step 222. Step 222 is the step of preparing
SSR device for next use. In this step, the user empties collection
tray 132 and, optionally, wipes clean flappers 140 with a cloth.
The user then closes all access mechanisms. Next is step 224, the
step of storing SSR device. In this step, the user returns
mechanical SSR device 100 to its storage location. Method 200 may
then proceed to step 226. In this optional step, in the case in
which batteries 160 are rechargeable batteries, the user plugs
mechanical SSR device 100 into an associated battery recharging
device. Method 200 ends. Of course, these steps need to not be
preformed in the order in which they appear above. Additionally,
one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate some steps need
not be present at all and other steps may be added.
[0056] FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of the internal
elements of a mechanical SSR device 300 in accordance with a second
embodiment of the invention. Mechanical SSR device 300 includes fan
assembly 110, flapper assembly 114, and battery assembly 116, as
described in reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C. However, instead of
including filter assembly 112 positioned near fan assembly 110,
mechanical SSR device 300 includes a filter 310 in an alternative
position relative to flapper assembly 114, for reasons described in
more detail in reference to FIG. 3B. Filter 310 is a consumable
non-woven filter or electrostatic cloth that is preferably slightly
sticky to capture debris.
[0057] FIG. 3B illustrates a side view of mechanical SSR device
300, which shows that mechanical SSR device 300 further includes a
body 312 formed of a rigid lightweight material, such as molded
plastic, that houses fan assembly 110, flapper assembly 114, and
battery assembly 116. Molded within body 312 is a handle 314, an
opening in that lower region of body 312 forms an inlet 316 at
which filter 310 is mounted. Additionally, a displacement chamber
318 is formed from inlet 316 of mechanical SSR device 300 and leads
to fan assembly 110. Displacement chamber 318 is bounded on two
sides by the inner walls of body 312, on an upper side near disks
146 by an airflow guide 320, and on a lower side by an airflow
guide 322, which are formed of, for example, molded plastic.
[0058] In this embodiment, filter 310 is located at the outside of
inlet 316, in order to facilitate easier access for removal and
replacement. Furthermore, this configuration greatly limits any
dust and hair from entering mechanical SSR device 300 and reaching
fan motor 120 and flapper motor 154, which reduces the possibility
of failure. However, because there is no collection tray 132 within
mechanical SSR device 300, this embodiment is less suited for
picking up large or heavy particles and more suited for removing
fine particles and hair. More specifically, the media forming
filter 310 is slightly sticky and, thus, acts like a piece of tape
on a soft surface, to attract and hold the dust and hair. Flappers
140 make contact with the surface of filter 310 opposite the soft
surface to be cleaned. The slapping action of flapper assembly 114
enhances the cleaning operation, in order to pick up hair that is
entangled within the fibers of the soft surface to be cleaned.
[0059] The general operation of mechanical SSR device 300 is
similar to that described in reference to mechanical SSR device 100
of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C. Additionally, the method of performing
soft-surface remediation using mechanical SSR device 300 of the
present invention is similar to that described in reference to
method 200 of FIG. 2. In both cases, mechanical SSR device 300
differs only in the placement and handling of the filter mechanism
and the absence of collection tray 132.
[0060] In summary and with reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 2, 3A and
3B, mechanical SSR device 100 and 300 of the present invention
effectively perform soft-surface remediation in a non-destructive
manner via flapper assembly 114 and fan assembly 110; are
low-powered and light-weight, have a large pickup area (i.e., inlet
174 and inlet 316, respectively) for providing a faster cleaning
operation, provide chemical delivery mechanism 180 for freshening,
disinfection, or assisting in the removal of contaminants; and
provides an easy-to-use, convenient mechanism that encourages
consumers to perform touchup cleaning events more frequently.
[0061] In one embodiment, the catch mechanism 130 or consumable
non-woven filter, electrostatic cloth or other such material is
preferably positioned in close proximity to the fan 110. Such a
disposal mechanism or catch 130 may be a variety of shapes,
including, but not limited to, a J-ring, a donut, or a slightly
convex or concave cup. The filter may be supported by a plastic or
cardboard ring, frame, or housing. In another example, disposal
catch mechanism 130 is a Grab-It.RTM. Cloth from S.C. Johnson &
Son, Inc. (Racine, Wis.) or a Swiffer.RTM. Cloth from Procter &
Gamble (Cincinnati, Ohio). In yet another example, disposal catch
mechanism may be located on or in the tray 132 and may be a
non-woven material, a gel, or some sticky substance that will act
to trap and hold particulate matter within the air.
[0062] In another embodiment, the flappers 140 themselves may be
also impregnated with an active material or ingredient to provide
sanitation, such as, odor removal, odor neutralization, or dust
mite control, to the soft surface to be cleaned. An example active
ingredient for providing sanitation and that has suitably small
particles that do not saturate the fabric is triethylene glycol
(TEG). An example active ingredient for providing odor
neutralization is also triethylene glycol (as found in Oust.RTM.
from S.C. Johnson & Son). An example active ingredient for
providing odor removal is cyclodextrin (as found in Febreze.RTM.
from Procter & Gamble). Alternatively, this material may be
added through the delivery system.
[0063] As mentioned, the fluid or chemical material consumable 182
may include a variety of materials, e.g., cleaners, odor
eliminators, fresheners, protectants, and disinfectants all of
which may be in the form of liquids, gases, solids, gels and/or
powders or combinations thereof. This chemistry is suitable to
remediate hard and soft surfaces such as a pillow, mattress,
carpet, car interior, drape, window, floor, plumbing drain, insect
habitat, and/or couch.
[0064] Additionally, any active material or ingredient may be
delivered to the surface being treated by the delivery system 180
which may also include a reservoir or other system that is
externally or internally mounted to the unit, and which may include
a trigger spray, pump spray, canister, fluid cavity, aerosol, or
similar means. Alternatively, the material may be a foam cleaner
(contained e.g., in a canister) which after being first set down by
an outward flow is then picked up by the device. The foam may be
activated by a variety of means as is known in the art, e.g.,
chemical reaction, surfactants, agitators, a dual bottle system,
OXYCLEAN, etc.
[0065] Materials that both protect and renew also may be added to
the fluid stream. These materials can rejuvenate the fibers of the
soft surface and coat them to become more dirt resistant and water
resistant in the future. For example, various compositions made by
DuPont and 3M are known to make fabric water and/or stain
resistant, such as SCOTCHGUARD.TM.. These materials may also
include compositions comprised of a dispersant and/or microcapsules
containing an active material.
[0066] Because of it configuration, this device 100 may be used not
only for soft surface cleaning but with minor modification to
deliver material that includes an insecticide, repellant,
herbicide, fungicide, antimicrobial, floor cleaner, window cleaner,
drain cleaner, air freshening, etc. A long, extendable, preferably
telescoping, handle allows the user to reach certain surfaces
and/or provide distance between the user and the material treating
the surface during application. In some instances, the motor is
preferably impervious to water so that the device can be used in
areas where these types of liquids are used.
[0067] In yet another embodiment, the handle may not be present.
This embodiment would be configured to fit into the palm of the
user's hand for ease of use in touch-up cleaning particular in
areas where is there is not much space.
[0068] Other embodiments of the present invention may have
protrusions projecting from the slapper or for the bottom of the
housing. These protrusions or teeth may be used to grab on and lift
up what is on the surface, e.g., pet hair, paper, or even some
other electro-statically bound matter. Alternatively, the teeth may
be part of a rake, brush, or they may not resemble teeth at all but
rather just a soft, spongy piece of material. The teeth may be more
rounded to be more like fingers and may be made of plastic, rubber,
or some equally stiff yet somewhat flexible material so as not to
damage the surface. Inner housing and motor housing are
substantially cylindrical shaped and are formed of a rigid
lightweight material, such as molded plastic or aluminum.
[0069] Although the best mode contemplated by the inventor of
carrying out the present invention is disclosed above, practice of
the present invention is not limited thereto. It will be manifest
that various additions, modifications and rearrangements of the
features of the present invention may be made without deviating
from the spirit and scope of the underlying inventive concept. In
addition, the individual components need not be fabricated from the
disclosed materials, but could be fabricated from virtually any
suitable materials. Moreover, the individual components need not be
formed in the disclosed shapes, or assembled in the disclosed
configuration, but could be provided in virtually any shape, and
assembled in virtually any configuration. Further, although many
components are described herein as physically separate modules, it
will be manifest that they may be integrated into the apparatus
with which they are associated. Furthermore, all the disclosed
features of each disclosed embodiment can be combined with, or
substituted for, the disclosed features of every other disclosed
embodiment except where such features are mutually exclusive.
[0070] It is intended that the appended claims cover all such
additions, modifications and rearrangements. Expedient embodiments
of the present invention are differentiated by the appended
claims.
* * * * *