Broom Head Bristle Cross-Section Geometry

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional broom blocks with round tufts are ineffective in collecting and sweeping mixtures of fine dust and coarse particles of different sizes.

Innovation Solution

A broom block design featuring tufts with non-round cross-sections, including elongated, triangular, rectangular, kidney-shaped, oval, and V-shaped configurations, along with arched rubber lamellae, which provide improved rigidity and surface area for capturing and removing particles of varying sizes and types.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If conventional broom blocks with round tufts are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but they are ineffective in collecting and sweeping mixtures of fine dust and coarse particles of different sizes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of broom block structureVSAvoideffectiveness in collecting particles of different sizes
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The broom block is segmented into multiple tuft groups, each with different cross-sectional shapes (round, triangular, rectangular, V-shaped, kidney-shaped) to handle different particle sizes and types. This segmentation allows each tuft type to specialize in capturing specific particles while maintaining overall manufacturing simplicity through modular assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces asymmetric and non-round cross-sectional shapes (triangular, rectangular, V-shaped, kidney-shaped) for tufts to improve particle capture effectiveness. These asymmetric shapes create better contact with surfaces and particles of varying sizes, resolving the limitation of conventional round tufts while remaining manufacturable through standard molding techniques.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Productivity

If tufts with non-round cross-sections are used, then particle capture effectiveness is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparticle capture effectivenessVSAvoidcomplexity of tuft cross-sectional shapes
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Different regions of the broom block are assigned different tuft cross-sectional shapes based on local cleaning requirements. Edge areas receive V-shaped and triangular tufts for corner cleaning and particle capture, while central areas use rectangular and kidney-shaped tufts for fine dust collection. This local differentiation optimizes performance without requiring complete redesign of the entire broom block.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The invention varies the cross-sectional shape parameters of tufts (round, triangular, rectangular, V-shaped, kidney-shaped) to optimize particle capture for different particle sizes and types. These parameter changes are achieved through standard manufacturing processes, balancing improved effectiveness with manageable manufacturing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If rubber lamellae are added to the broom block, then moisture film removal capability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemoisture film removal capabilityVSAvoidnumber of components in broom block
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The rubber lamellae are integrated with the tuft structure, with some lamellae positioned between tuft groups or attached to the broom block base. This merging of functions allows the broom block to simultaneously perform dry particle collection via tufts and moisture film removal via lamellae, reducing overall system complexity while expanding functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The rubber lamellae serve multiple functions: they remove moisture films from surfaces, provide structural support for adjacent tufts, and contribute to overall broom block flexibility. This multi-functionality justifies the added component while maximizing its utility across different cleaning scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

The broom block effectively sweeps and captures fine dust, coarse particles, hair, and damp dirt, offering enhanced cleaning performance by utilizing tufts with diverse cross-sectional shapes and flexible, solvent-resistant rubber lamellae.

Implementation Method 1

Lamellae are preferably made of elastomer, in particular rubber. According to the invention, the slats are designed as rubber sheets. Rubber is solvent resistant and flexible.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP2793648B1Broom head with bristle structure
Publication Date: 2018.10.31 CARL FREUDENBERG KG
  • EP2793648B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2793648B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2793648B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

In respect of the problem of specifying a broom head which can readily sweep up differently sized particles and mixtures of the same, a broom head comprising a basic body (100), from which clusters (1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13) of bristles project, is characterized in that the clusters (1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13) have a cross section which is neither round nor circular.