WO2016079691A1

WO2016079691A1 - A drying system and a method of using said system

Info

Publication number: WO2016079691A1
Application number: PCT/IB2015/058929
Authority: WO
Inventors: Graeme Joynson
Original assignee: Graeme Joynson
Priority date: 2014-11-18
Filing date: 2015-11-18
Publication date: 2016-05-26
Also published as: GB201420476D0; GB2532434A; GB2532434B

Abstract

An improved drying system that permits access to an area being dried during the drying process. The drying system comprises: an inflatable mat having a first face and a second face, at least one inlet for receiving a supply of drying fluid and at least one vent arranged on a first face that in use is directed towards a surface to be dried so as to direct drying fluid to the surface being dried, at least one through pathway to allow escape of drying fluid from the surface being dried wherein the through pathway is adapted to receive at least one support which in use supports a platform.

Description

A DRYING SYSTEM AND A METHOD OF USING SAID SYSTEM

Field of invention

The present invention discloses a drying system, in particular but not exclusively a drying system having a through pathway to allow escape of humid air from the surface being dried, the pathway suitable for permitting a through access of a support for supporting a platform.

Background

A number of drying devices exist to enable target drying of a wet surface. Such devices are suitable for drying domestic, commercial, industrial and construction properties, for example following a flood event or wet cleaning process or as part of construction activities.

Standard drying devices for such target drying typically use air to accelerate drying enabling moisture to be evaporated from the wet surface. Commonly a drying mat, such as an inflatable mat, is placed on a surface and connected to an air supply so as to channel air via the mat to the wet surface. Often such devices use equipment such as air blowers, heaters and dehumidifiers usually in combination with one another. However when such devices are deployed in the room or area that is being dried, typically the room or area has to be vacated until the drying is completed. This means that until the area is dry no other work can be carried out and access to and through the area being dried is severely restricted.

One outcome is that alternative accommodation has to be sought. This puts families, commercial and industrial businesses and construction related work businesses to a great amount of inconvenience whilst they wait for what can be extended periods of time for areas to dry before follow a room or building can be re-entered. Furthermore, drying air is commonly directed through an array of holes in the underside of such drying devices. As dry air is expelled it collects water vapour from the target surface and then has to make its way to an exit usually at an extremity of the drying device, mixing with other air at different humidities as it does. This can lead to condensation, and a reduction in drying efficiency therefore delaying drying. Also the air at the extremities of known devices is often saturated or very high in humidity and air at the centre is low in humidity resulting in a potential for uneven drying of the area being dried by the device.

The present invention seeks to address these problems by providing an array of pathways across the devices to allow escape of humid air from the wet surface, as well as providing a location for support legs for a work or access platform.

Prior Art

United Kingdom patent application GB-A-2 397 366 (ELLIOTT et at) discloses a drying device comprising opposed sheets of flexible material co-joined along peripheral edge portions wherein at least one of the sheets is provided with a multiplicity of small apertures over the majority of its surface area.

International patent application WO-A-2005 031 230 (FERNANDES et a!) discloses a heating and drying system for heating and drying walls in a damp environment comprising: a wall system. The wall system further comprises: sheathing means for sheathing a wall surface, and air channelling means for channelling air along said wall surface

United States patent application US-A-2010 192 400 (STORRER) discloses a surface drying system having a vacuum source comprising: a water-impermeable membrane having an upper side, a lower side, a perimeter, and a grid having passageways in fluid communication with the surface to be dried; and a port within the membrane and in fluid communication with the vacuum source.

UK patent application GB-A-2 423 810 (Dri Eaz) discloses a system for guiding air to targeted surfaces. The system comprises an air mover and an air guide member. The air mover defines an outlet through which air is displaced. The air guide member defines at least one chamber that becomes inflated by air displaced by the air mover and secondary air being guided towards a desired location.

UK patent application GB-A-2 475 556 (Transeal Products) discloses a drying device having an inflatable chamber formed of a flexible material with an inlet for connection to an air blower and a plurality of holes formed in a lower surface to allow air to pass from the chamber.

Japanese patent application JP-A-2000051583 (Mitsubishi) discloses a mat system for drying bedding with airflow quantity adjusting holes.

US patent US-5 992 051 (Salehibaklsh) discloses a carpet drying system including at least one housing and a plurality of air ports mounted on a bottom of the housing for being inserted within a carpet.

US patent application US-A-2006 0254072 (Myerholtz et al.) discloses a method for drying a surface that has means for supporting a fabric cover above the surface and holding side edges of the fabric cover against the surface such that an air channel is formed between the fabric cover and surface.

Summary of invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a drying system comprising: an inflatable mat having a first face and a second face, at least one inlet receiving a supply of drying fluid and at least one vent arranged on the first face that in use is directed towards a surface to be dried so as to direct drying fluid to the surface being dried, at least one through pathway to allow escape of drying fluid from the surface being dried, wherein the through pathway receives at least one support which in use supports a platform.

Ideally the platform is located above the mat, so that in use, it defines a surface or walkway spaced apart from the surface being dried. In this way the mat is located between the surface to be dried and the platform.

The drying system is connected to an air supply, such as an air blower, so as to inflate the mat and therefore forces drying fluid, such as air or heated air, through the mat and out via the vents. The air blower may be connected directly to the mat or may be connected by a channel such as a pipe, conduit or ducting. The air supply such as the air blower is ideally connected to the mat via the inlet optionally by way of a quick-fit connector.

In some embodiments the mat may include an outlet adapted for connection to an inlet and/or outlet on a second mat. In this way two or more drying mats can be connected together so as to dry a larger area and so as to permit drying of particular wet area depending upon arrangement of adjacent mats. For example permitting mats to be laid in an array to cover the floor of a room and the adjoining hallway. Once the mats have been laid and connected to one another the supports and platform can be located prior to inflation of the mat.

Typically an engagement means is provided for attaching the air blower to the mat and/or channel. The engagement means may comprise; interlocking parts, catch means, clips, clamps or snap-fit means.

In some embodiments more than one air blower may be used in a system. For example the mat may include more than one inlet. The air blower may include or be incorporated with heating means so as to warm the drying fluid in order to accelerate drying. The temperature of the heating means may by controlled so that temperature can be selected depending upon the nature and moisture content of the surface being dried. For example a delicate surface such as a wool carpet, or wood, may be dried at lower temperatures so as to prevent damage.

The air blower may also or alternatively include a dehumidifier so as to remove moisture from the drying fluid.

The dehumidifier may be used to both dehumidify air prior to passing through the mat as well as air which exhausts via the through pathways, after it has removed moisture from the surface that is being dried.

In some embodiments one or more separate heaters or dehumidifiers may be used as part of a drying system. For example a heater(s) or a dehumidifier(s) is located within the area being dried, but not connected directly to a mat.

The drying system provides an improvement to existing drying devices by having a plurality of through pathways that transverse the main body of the mat, from a first face in contact with the wet surface, to a second face. In this way humid air that accumulates between the mat and the wet surface to be dried, is able to escape through the pathways to the ambient atmosphere allowing new drying fluid to pass over the wet surface. This accelerates drying as humid drying fluid does not accumulate as it did in prior art devices and is able to be quickly removed and replaced by less humid drying fluid.

Preferably the mat includes a plurality of through pathways regularly spaced across the mat. Advantageously these allow the humid drying fluid to exit away from the wet surface rapidly without having to travel to extremities, such as corners, of the mat so that the humid drying fluid does not hinder the drying process and instead is quickly replaced with the less humid drying fluid that is ejected through the vents. Therefore these pathways reduce the likelihood of condensation of the humid air on the first face of the mat that would slow down the drying process and could lead to uneven drying.

In preferred embodiments the platform comprises a substantially horizontal surface, arranged atop one or more supports wherein the platform is capable of weight bearing so as to permit support of persons and/or equipment thereon.

In some embodiments the platform has edges that extend distally from a lower face of the platform forming a perimeter wall. Advantageously this provides enhanced strength to the platform and provides an additional region in which drying air may collect before escaping the drying microclimate.

In an alternative embodiment the platform may be shaped to correspond to the surface being drying. The platform may be inclined or curved so that for example, the platform may be shaped to fit in the hull of a ship.

In some embodiments the platform and supports are provided as separate parts that are assembled when required for use. Alternatively the platform and supports may be integrated so as to be one part.

In this way a working platform or walkway can be provided above the drying mat permitting access over an area being dried. Advantageously this allows work to be carried out in a room or area when otherwise the room or area would be out of use during the drying process. This may therefore accelerate the process of repairing damage, for example caused by water to other surface such as ceilings or walls and to enable reinstatement work to commence sooner. In commercial situations office equipment such as desks and chairs, for instance, may be set up as a temporary working environment on the platform allowing work to continue at the premises, thereby reducing 'down time' of an office or an area would otherwise be unable to be used. This reduces associated loss of earnings and reduces repair delays due to water damage. In some embodiments the drying system is arranged, in use, on or adjacent a wall or ceiling wherein the platform provides a surface that aids to contain or retain the mat against the surface to be dried and defines the area in which the drying microclimate is created. In such embodiments the platform need not be weight bearing.

The drying system may be adapted to maintain the system against a wall or ceiling. For example the system may include attachment means for securing the system to a wall or ceiling, or the platform may be adapted to receive a brace or bracing means such as a branching arm that aids in holding or retaining the drying system against the wall or ceiling.

The platform may comprise a plurality of sections capable of connection one to another so as to provide a solid platform. Edges of the platform may preferably include connection means so as to enable connection of one edge to another edge of a second platform section. For example the platform may have interlocking portions or include or accept clips, clamps, magnets or snap fittings so as to allow sections to be locked together.

In this way the platforms can be interconnected, one to another, so as to provide a network of linked platforms, such as a path across the mat(s) or a temporary floor over one landing or a property.

The platform may be adapted so as to connect at different angles, for example to permit one platform to be arranged perpendicular to another so as to permit drying in a corner or at a specific user defined angle.

In some embodiments the platforms may be connected so as to permit movement, for example to allow one platform to move relative to another. In some embodiments the platforms may be joined by a flexible connector. For example the connector may be formed from a resiliently deformable material, or the connector may be in the form of a hinge that permits pivoting. Advantageously this permits the platform to be easily arranged over a non-linear surface.

In some embodiments the platform may include apertures so as to permit escape of humid air. In this way if the platform is arranged to provide a continuous layer over a wet surface, humid air is still able to escape. It is appreciated that some platforms may include apertures and others may not. In this way platforms with apertures can be positioned where it is preferable for humid air to be vented, such as close to a window or dehumidifier.

Typically the platform is planar so as to provide a flat upper surface and so as to be easily fitted above a mat or plurality of mats.

Ideally a lower face of the mat is adapted to receive the supports, for example the lower face may include recesses for receiving the supports. Supports may be provided in different lengths so as to vary the distance that the platform is above the mats and so as to enable the platform to be arranged on an uneven surface wherein support length is altered to accommodate undulations in the surface.

The length of the supports may be varied depending upon the surface to be dried so that the volume of the microclimate created between the platform and wet surface can be varied depending upon support length.

In some embodiments supports may be adjustable, for example being telescopic or adapted for accepting or removing additional sections so as to adjust height in order to provide a level platform.

Ideally each support may have a resiliently deformable foot provided on a distal end so as to grip the wet surface during use and so as to prevent damage to the surface. In another embodiment a distal face of the foot may have a raised and lowered surface so as to allow circulation of drying fluid about the foot so as to ensure the surface below the foot can be dried. Ideally the support spacing corresponds with the through pathways so that the supports are aligned with the pathways.

In some embodiments the support may include a brace extending between the support and the platform for improved strength.

The support may be hollow so as to be lightweight and so as to permit circulation of air.

Preferably the platform is made from a strong, durable material, such as a synthetic plastics material, so as to be suitable for weight bearing and for repeated use. The platform may also be lightweight so as to be easily transported and fitted. For example the platform may be formed from a synthetic plastic.

In some embodiments the platform may be formed from recycled materials and are shaped and configured to be stackable.

The platform may be formed using an injection moulding system with leg spacings dimensioned to correspond with through pathways on the mat. Preferably the through pathways are dimensioned to accept the supports whilst still allowing through passage of drying fluid. For example the through pathways may be oval shaped for accepting a cylindrical support. In this way there will be a gap through which humid air can escape. In other embodiments the through pathway may be round, square, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal or any other multi-sided shape.

In some embodiments the through pathways may include a reinforced portion. The reinforced portion(s) may comprise one or more additional layer(s) of the same or an alternative material. For example a rubber layer may be included around an edge of a through pathway. Alternatively or additionally the reinforced portion may be an eyelet or rim may be included in the through pathway. This enables the pathway to be maintained in an open position even when the mat is deflated.

Advantageously the reinforced portions protect the through pathway from damage caused by the supports for example due to rubbing or pinching. Furthermore the reinforced portions provide an element of rigidity to the through pathways make it easier to insert the supports, for example if inserting the supports before the mat is inflated.

In a preferred embodiment the reinforced portion of the through pathway may comprise a hollow rigid structure such as a tube or cylinder that is attached to the mat defining the through pathway. In this way a platform may be placed directly upon the mat wherein the hollow structure serves as a support for the platform and prevents the mat from being crushed during weight bearing.

In some embodiments the hollow rigid structure, or hollow structure, may be adhered to or bonded to the through pathway so that the hollow structure is integrated with the mat.

In other embodiments a pocket may be provided to receive the hollow structure(s), or attachment means may be provided to attach the hollow structure to the through pathway such as hooks, catches or interlocking means.

Advantageously in this embodiment no separate supports are required as the hollow structures provide support for the platform(s). This allows a drying system to be more rapidly deployed.

In some preferred embodiments the hollow rigid structure(s) may extend from each side of the through pathway so as to protrude from the mat wherein a distal end contacts the surface being dried and a proximal end receives the platform. In this way an area between the mat and the surface being dried is defined in which drying fluid can circulate. In this embodiment the platform is also spaced apart from the mat. A distal end of the hollow structure, that contacts the wet surface in use, preferably includes raised and lowered portions so as to permit passage of drying fluid from the area between a first face of the mat and the wet surface, to escape through the hollow structure passing up through the through passage so as to exit from the second face of the mat.

The distal end of the hollow structure may be castellated, undulating, toothed or perforated so as to permit flow of drying fluid therethrough. The distal end of the hollow structure may also be covered in a resiliently deformable layer such as rubber or a cellular structure such as foam so as to prevent damage to the surface being dried.

In some embodiments it may be possible to fold or roll the mat, hollow structures and platform as a combined unit so that there is no assembly of parts required. For example the platform may be provided in lengths so as to enable the mat, hollow structures and platforms to be rolled. Typically the platform may be adapted so as to be able to roll in one way but to be prevented from flexing in the opposite arrangement so as to provide a solid platform when the drying system is laid out.

Ideally an upper face of the platform may be textured or include raised and lowered portions so as to provide grip for a person or equipment upon the platform.

The through pathways are ideally apertures formed in the mat that traverse the mat. Edges of the mat around the through pathway are sealed so as to prevent escape of drying fluid so that passage of drying fluid is only permitted to and from inlets, outlets and vents.

Advantageously the platform provides a barrier to limit the mats from lifting beyond the platform during drying. Commonly drying mats are weighted down so as to prevent them lifting during drying. If drying fluid is channelled to the mat under pressure it can cause the mat to detach or move away from the wet surface. However by weighing down the mat there is a risk of creating regions of the surface that are harder to dry. The platform allows the mat effectively to hover above the wet surface as the drying fluid is pumped at sufficient pressure to lift the mat from the wet surface so that the platform provides a barrier to hold the mat at a fixed position above the wet surface.

Advantageously this enables a microclimate to be created between the mat and the wet surface so permitting circulation of drying fluid in an area that is in contact with the wet surface. Drying fluid is forced out through the vents into the area between the mat and wet surface so that the fluid disrupts water molecules at the wet surface and provides energy to encourage evaporation from the surface. Subsequently the drying fluid absorbs water vapour and becomes more humid. This humid drying fluid is able to escape through the pathways through which the supports pass.

Preferably the mat includes at least one outlet for connection to an inlet/outlet of at least one other mat, either directly or by way of a conduit such as a pipe, so as to permit through flow of drying fluid from one mat to another in order to provide drying over a larger area. In this way an array or network of mats can be interconnected thereby covering a larger area.

The drying system may comprise a singular or modular system comprising one mat or several mats arranged in an array. The mats may be connected to each other by connectors that permit passage of drying fluid or may be connected to a supply of drying fluid individually and exclusively.

In some embodiments the connectors may by attached to a conduit so as to channel drying fluid from one mat to another over a distance, for example if patch drying or drying more than one separate area whilst using the same drying fluid supply.

As the mats are flexible the drying system may arranged to be fitted in a corner or over an undulating or irregular surface. Preferably the mat comprises two layers joined at least around a peripheral edge, providing a cavity that can be inflated. Ideally the two layers may be joined internally at additional points across the two layers so as to ensure even inflation of the mat.

In some embodiments the mats may be formed from a plurality of interconnection sections that allow drying fluid to pass freely from one section to another.

Preferably the mat is formed from a strong, durable, water resistant material such as a synthetic woven fabric or a synthetic plastic. In some embodiments the mat be formed from more that two layers.

Advantageously when the mat is not in use and is therefore deflated the mat may be rolled or folded so as to be readily stored when not in use.

In some embodiments the inlet(s), outlet(s) and/or vents may have reinforced openings so as to be strong and durable for repeated use. For example each opening may have a thickened rim, an eyelet or an additional layer of material for improved strength and durability. Advantageously the reinforced openings may assist with connecting connectors, air blowers or conduits.

In preferred embodiments the mat is square or rectangular having an inlet or outlet on each edge. In this way each mat can be readily connected to another on any side. Advantageously this can allow a mat network to be provided in a variety of shapes, for example through a doorway or hallway.

The mat may be provided in various sizes and shapes to as to be suitable for different drying situations.

In some embodiments the mats may be provided in alternative shapes for example having one or more curved edge, being round or triangular. In this way the mats can be used for unusual/irregular spaces. Furthermore a mat may be manufactured to bespoke measurements for a particular space such as the foot well of a vehicle, a toilet cubicle or boat.

Preferably each mat includes a plurality of vents arranged on a first face. In this way drying fluid can be evenly expelled from the mat over the wet surface.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a method of using the drying system comprising the steps of: positioning a mat on a surface to be dried so that a first face interfaces the surface to be dried; connecting a fluid drying supply to the mat; locating supports in through pathways so that the supports are in contact with the surface being dried; engaging a platform on the supports; and delivering a source of pressurised drying fluid into a through pathway in order to remove moisture from the surface to be dried.

The plurality of through pathways allows a plurality of supports to be located so as to securely support the platform. In this a way that the drying system can be deployed and operated whilst still permitting access to or over the area being dried by use of the platform/walkway.

In some embodiments the through pathway may include an attachment means for attaching the mat to a support so as to limit movement about the support. For example the attachment means may comprise; ties, straps, hook and loop means, clips, clasps or buckles.

The drying system provides a means retaining a mat against a vertical or horizontal surface as well as providing means for arrangement of a weight bearing platform to be deployed over the mat, thus allowing pedestrian traffic over the floor during the drying process. It is appreciated that in some embodiments the platform may not fully cover each mat but may provide a path across the mat. Therefore the drying system may be more compact than other drying systems. In some situations the supports and platform may be arranged over a wet surface without a mat. The platform may be arranged so as to provide a continuous layer over the wet surface and a drying air supply may be supplied under the platform. In this way the drying microclimate is created between the platform and the wet surface.

In this way the upper face of the platform may receive flooring such as a carpet, providing a useable false floor. Typically humid air may escape from gaps between the platforms or from an open edge that is not connected to another platform.

In some arrangements the platform may include a plurality of apertures so as to permit escape of humid air.

In some embodiments the platform edges may be adapted to receive at least one closure plate that prevents or limit escapes of air. For example the closure plates may abut a surface such as wall, door, door frame, window, light fitting or light fixture. The closure plate may have resiliently deformable edges that abut the surface so as to prevent damage and so as to provide a seal.

The closure plate may be connected to the platform by means of the interlocking means that enable one platform to join to another.

The platform may be adapted to include an opening for receiving the air supply. The opening may be arranged on any face of the platform.

It is appreciated that the drying system may be provided for long term or permanent use, for example in a location where a surface regularly becomes wet or damp. In this way the drying system remains in situ and is activated periodically subject to requirement. Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the Figures in which:

Brief Description of the Figures

Figure 1 shows an overview of a preferred embodiment of the drying system;

Figure 2 shows an overview of the drying system shown in figure 1 without the platform;

Figure 3 shows a cross section of the drying system; and

Figure 4 shows an isometric view of drying system.

Detailed Description of the Figures

The Figures show preferred embodiments of the drying system which enables access to an area being dried during the drying process. Figure 1 shows a rectangular mat 10 with a plurality of through pathways 12. The through pathways 12 are oval shaped so as to permit location of a support (not shown) and to allow escape of humid air.

One edge of the mat 10 includes an inlet 14 on the perimeter 1 1 for receiving a drying fluid supply. An air blower 16 is connected to the inlet 14 so as to inflate the mat 10.

The mat 10 has undulating first and second faces 18, 19. In this way only part of the first face is in contact with the surface being dried during use. Furthermore the undulating surface means that drying fluid is ejected through the vents in different directions so as to aid with dispersing any moisture.

The mat 10 has a platform 20 arranged atop the mat. The platform 20 is supported by a plurality of supports (not shown) so as to provide a flat level surface. Figure 2 shows the mat 10 with no platform. The mat has a plurality of regularly spaced through passageways 12.

Figure 3 shows a cross section of the drying system in use. The mat 10 is arranged on a wet surface 22. The first face 18 of the mat includes a plurality of vents 24 through which drying fluid is ejected towards the surface to be dried.

Supports 26 pass through the through pathway 12. A distal end 27 of the support is in contact with the wet surface 22 and a proximal end 28 of the support is attached to the platform 20.

A proximal end of the support may be adapted to receive the platform, for example having attachment means to engage the platform.

Figure 4 shows an overview of the drying system. A platform 20 is provided in the form of a walkway to allow passage through a room that is having the floor dried. An array of six mats is positioned adjacent to one another. Each mat 10 is connected to another mat 10 by means of a connector 30. Each mat 10 is interconnected to at least one other mat so as to allow through flow of drying fluid from one mat to another.

One mat 10A is attached to a drying supply 16 by a pipe 28. The pipe 28 channels drying fluid from the supply 16 to the mat 10A. The pipe 28 is connected to the mat through an inlet 14.

The invention has been described by way of example only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the aforementioned embodiments without departing from the scope of invention as defined by the claims.

Claims

1 . A drying system comprising: an inflatable mat having a first face and a second face, at least one inlet for receiving a supply of drying fluid and at least one vent is arranged in the first face that in use is directed towards a surface to be dried so as to direct drying fluid to the surface being dried; and at least one through pathway to allow escape of drying fluid from the surface being dried wherein the through pathway receives at least one support which in use supports a platform.

2. A drying system according to claim 1 wherein the platform comprises a substantially horizontal surface, arranged atop one or more supports wherein the platform is capable of weight bearing so as to define a walkway fora person to walk t thereon.

3. A drying system according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the mat includes at least one outlet for connection to an inlet/outlet of at least one other mat so as to permit through flow of drying fluid from one mat to another in order to provide drying over a larger area.

4. A drying system according to claim 3 wherein at least two mats are connected by connectors.

5. A drying system according to any preceding claim wherein the drying fluid is air and is provided by an air blower.

6. A drying system according to any preceding claim including a dehumidifier.

7. A drying system according to any preceding claim including heating means to warm the drying fluid.

8. A drying system according to any preceding claim wherein the platform provides a barrier to limit lifting of the mat from the surface being dried as the drying fluid is forced from the vents.

9. A drying system according to any preceding claim wherein the platform includes interlocking means to permit one platform to be interconnected to another platform thereby providing a network of linked platforms.

10. A drying system according to claim 9 wherein the platforms are connected by at least one connector.

1 1 . A drying system according to either claim 9 or 10 wherein each platform includes at least one aperture.

12. A drying system according to any preceding claim wherein the through pathway includes attachment means to secure the mat to the support

13. A drying system according to any preceding claim wherein an opening of an inlet, outlet or vent is reinforced.

14. A drying system according to any preceding claim wherein the through pathway includes reinforced portions.

15. A drying system according to claim 14 wherein the reinforced portion comprises a hollow rigid structure.

16. A method of using the drying system as described in any of claims 1 to 15 having the steps of: positioning the mat on a surface to be dried so that the first face interfaces the surface to be dried; connecting the fluid drying supply to the mat; locating the at least one support through the at least one pathway so to as to be in contact with the surface being dried; engaging the platform on the at least one support; activating the drying fluid supply.

17. A drying system as substantially herein described with reference to the figures.