Kitchen Tool Sanitizing System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A next-generation kitchen tool sanitizing system that leverages ultraviolet light and water mist to efficiently sanitize kitchen tools, providing a more effective and efficient solution for commercial and domestic kitchens.
Background and Problem Solved
The original cleaning device patent addressed the need for efficient cleaning of kitchen tools, but it had limitations in terms of sanitizing efficiency and adaptability to different tool types. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing a sanitizing chamber with ultraviolet light and water mist, enabling more effective sanitizing and tool tracking capabilities.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The kitchen tool sanitizing system comprises a sanitizing chamber, an ultraviolet light source, and a water mist generator. The sanitizing chamber is designed to receive a kitchen tool, and the ultraviolet light source emits light at a wavelength of 254 nanometers to effectively eliminate bacteria and viruses. The water mist generator enhances sanitizing efficiency by generating a mist of ozone-enriched water. The system can be integrated with a tool tracking module to adjust sanitizing parameters according to the type of kitchen tool inserted. The system can be implemented as a standalone appliance or integrated into existing dishwashing systems.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept introduces the use of ultraviolet light and water mist to sanitize kitchen tools, which is a significant departure from the original patent's mechanical cleaning approach. The addition of tool tracking capabilities and ozone-enriched water mist generation further distinguish the new concept from the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in the design of the sanitizing chamber, the type of ultraviolet light source used, or the integration of additional sanitizing agents. The system could also be adapted for use in other industries, such as healthcare or food processing.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The kitchen tool sanitizing system has significant commercial potential in the domestic and commercial kitchen appliance markets, as well as in related industries such as food processing and healthcare. The system's ability to efficiently sanitize kitchen tools could lead to increased adoption in these markets, particularly in regions with high sanitation standards.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A47 | A47L15/39 |
| A | A46 | A46B13/02 |
| A | A46 | A46D1/0207 |
| A | A47 | A47L15/0086 |
| A | A47 | A47L15/4214 |
| A | A46 | A46B2200/3033 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Kitchen cleaning and sanitization technologies, encompassing mechanical cleaning devices, tool sanitization systems, and industrial/commercial kitchen equipment design. Requires expertise in mechanical engineering, materials science, and microbial decontamination techniques
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related field, experienced in kitchen equipment design, familiar with sanitization technologies, water treatment systems, and mechanical cleaning mechanisms
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that enhancing the source patent's mechanical cleaning device with ultraviolet sanitization and water mist represents a predictable technological evolution. The core problem of kitchen tool cleaning remains consistent, and the proposed variations represent known sanitization techniques readily combinable with existing mechanical cleaning approaches. The integration of UV light and water mist represents a logical extension of existing cleaning technology
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,132 |
|---|---|
| Title | Cleaning device |
| Assignee(s) | Whirlpool Corporation |