Beveled Floor Removal Tool With Raised Fulcrum Leverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for removing flooring and subflooring are inefficient, requiring constant bending or kneeling, leading to increased risk of work-related injuries and slow progress due to the small contact surface of traditional tools like crowbars and chisels.
Innovation Solution
A floor removal tool with a base member featuring a thin plate and a second plate member, a bracing member, and a handle attachment, allowing for efficient insertion and leverage of materials using manual or pneumatic tools, with optional features like bevels, fulcrum sills, and apertures for various engagement methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional tools like crowbars or chisels are used to remove flooring, then the removal process can be performed with simple tools, but the contact surface is small leading to inefficient force application and slow progress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional one-dimensional linear tools (crowbars, chisels) to a two-dimensional plate-based tool structure. The first plate member and second plate member form a planar configuration that provides a larger contact surface area while maintaining the ability to apply force efficiently through the leveraged handle mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If traditional manual removal methods are used, then no specialized equipment is needed, but constant bending or kneeling is required increasing the risk of work-related injuries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary handle mechanism that acts as a mediator between the operator and the flooring removal process. The handle can be engaged with the first plate member to provide mechanical advantage, allowing the operator to work in a standing position rather than bending or kneeling constantly, thereby improving safety while managing the tool's operational complexity.
3Productivity
If traditional tools are used for flooring removal, then the tool structure remains simple, but only small portions of flooring can be removed with each attempt
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the tool into distinct functional segments: a first plate member for insertion and leverage, a second plate member for force application, and a handle for operator input. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while collectively enabling more efficient removal of larger portions of flooring compared to traditional single-piece tools.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables faster and safer removal of flooring and subflooring without the need for constant bending, reducing the risk of injury and increasing efficiency by providing a larger contact surface for force application.
Implementation Method 1
The thin plate member comprising a bevel or wedge at a first proximal side
Implementation Method 2
a floor removal tool which can be manually or mechanically used to more easily and efficiently separate flooring or subflooring from its adhered to surface
Implementation Method 3
a bracing member, which forms an integral attachment with both the thin plate member at or near the distal side and the second plate member
Implementation Method 4
The aperture is for optionally receiving a tool engaging member, with the tool engaging member engaging a surface inside, around or both inside and around the aperture
Data Source
AI summary
A floor removal tool comprising a beveled, thin base connected to a long handle, which is used for the removal of materials adhered to a surface, commonly flooring or subflooring. The beveled base is wide to facilitate the efficient removal of large amounts of material when the ergonomic handle is pushed or pulled to leverage the adhered material up. The beveled base is also connected to a second vertical plate that has a fulcrum sill. When a suitably sized block is placed under the sill, the pivot point is raised such that there is a decreased chance of damaging the surface. The base can be easily struck by a man-powered tool or it can be connected to an air-powered tool to facilitate tool insertion under the material to be removed.