Adjustable Handle Assembly With Movable Balance for Reduced Fatigue
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning and coating application devices with lightweight handles suffer from operator fatigue due to repetitive motion and inaccuracy caused by flexibility, which increases energy demand and reduces efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A handle with an adjustable center of gravity, featuring a stiffened design with a threaded connection and a rotating outer shaft, allowing the center of gravity to be moved along the handle, thereby altering the angle of force application and reducing muscle strain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the handle is designed to be lightweight, then the strength required for use is reduced, but operator fatigue increases due to repetitive motion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the handle's center of gravity adjustable rather than fixed. The weight distribution mechanism allows the operator to dynamically reposition the center of gravity along the handle length, transforming a static lightweight design into a dynamic system that adapts to different operational needs, thereby reducing fatigue while maintaining light weight
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of weight distribution by allowing the center of gravity to be repositioned along the handle. This parameter change enables the same lightweight handle to provide different mechanical advantages depending on the task, resolving the contradiction between light weight and ease of operation by varying the effective weight distribution rather than increasing overall mass
2Weight of moving object
If the handle is designed to be lightweight, then material usage is reduced, but handle flexibility increases resulting in placement inaccuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the handle into distinct functional sections: a stiff main shaft for structural integrity and accuracy, and a separate adjustable weight mechanism for balancing. This segmentation allows the lightweight handle to maintain stiffness where needed for precision while incorporating weight adjustment for ergonomic balance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite construction combining stiff structural materials for the main handle shaft with adjustable weight components. This composite approach creates a lightweight yet stiff handle that resists flexing for accurate placement while maintaining low overall weight through strategic material selection and distribution
3Device complexity
If the center of gravity is fixed, then the device structure is simple, but the operator cannot adapt to different cleaning locations or hand positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static center of gravity into a dynamic, adjustable parameter. The adjustment mechanism allows the center of gravity to be repositioned along the handle length, enabling the operator to adapt the device to different cleaning locations and hand positioning preferences while adding minimal structural complexity through a straightforward mechanical adjustment system
Data Source
AI summary
A stiffened handle assembly for a cleaning device such as a broom with an internal weight whose position is adjustable by the user to change the center of gravity of the cleaning device for ease of use. As an option, the handle assembly may be attached to a broom head, mop head, or other cleaning device, or a coating application device such as a paint roller, floor wax applicator.