Concrete Broom Protector with Pivot Handle

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Concrete broom bristles often become bent or damaged during non-use, making subsequent use difficult and affecting the finish of concrete surfaces, as existing protectors with hooks complicate the movement between clamping and non-clamping positions.

Innovation Solution

A protector with pivotally connected clamping members and a transversely extending handle on the clamping lever allows easy movement between open and closed positions, securely clamping the bristles to prevent damage and facilitate handling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a hook is provided at the outer end of the clamping lever to hang the protector during non-use, then the protector can be conveniently stored, but it becomes difficult to grasp and move the clamping member between positions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage convenienceVSAvoidease of movement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The clamping lever is segmented into two functional zones: the inner end maintains the hook for storage hanging, while the outer end adds a transverse handle for grasping and movement. This segmentation allows both storage convenience and ease of operation to coexist without interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The transverse handle acts as an intermediary element that facilitates the movement operation without interfering with the hook's storage function. By providing a dedicated grasping surface, it mediates between the user's hand and the clamping mechanism, making movement easier while preserving the hook's utility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the clamping members are made secure to firmly clamp the bristles, then the bristles are protected from damage, but the mechanism becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection effectivenessVSAvoidclamp structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The protective function is extracted from the clamping action itself. The clamping members provide both the clamping force for protection and the structural framework, eliminating the need for separate protective elements and reducing overall complexity while maintaining effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The clamping members serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide the clamping force to protect bristles, form the structural framework of the protector, and work with the pivot to enable movement between positions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components.

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

Data Source

PatentUS11140975B1Protector for a concrete broom or the like
Publication Date: 2021.10.12 LESCH MICHAEL
  • US11140975B1 patent drawing
  • US11140975B1 patent drawing
  • US11140975B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A protector is provided for a broom such as a concrete broom or the like. The protector of this invention is clamped onto the bristles of a concrete broom or the like to protect the same.