Handheld Brush Positioner With Sensor-Based Retraction Stop

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tube cleaning systems rely on operator skill for brush retraction, leading to inconsistent positioning and increased cleaning time due to positioning errors, and previous retraction stop mechanisms cause mechanical wear and failure.

Innovation Solution

A handheld brush positioner with retraction stop sensing, using mechanical or electronic sensors to automatically stop the brush retraction when it reaches a consistent position, ensuring accurate alignment for the next tube cleaning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If operator manually controls brush retraction, then brush can be positioned, but positioning consistency deteriorates and cleaning time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebrush positioningVSAvoidbrush retraction position consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism using a sensor that detects the brush assembly's position during retraction. The sensor provides feedback to the control system, which automatically adjusts the motor to stop the brush at the precise correct position, eliminating manual positioning errors and ensuring consistent retraction depth.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical control system with an automated electromechanical system. The motor-driven retraction mechanism controlled by electronic sensors and a control circuit eliminates the need for operator skill and manual adjustment, providing precise and repeatable positioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If manual brush retraction is used, then operator controls positioning, but cleaning time increases due to positioning errors

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebrush controlVSAvoidcleaning speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor provides real-time feedback on brush position during retraction, allowing the control system to automatically stop at the optimal position without requiring the operator to judge the correct depth. This eliminates time-consuming manual adjustment and positioning errors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-positioning through automated sensor detection and motor control. The brush assembly automatically retracts to the correct position without requiring operator intervention or skill, thereby reducing the time needed for each cleaning cycle.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If retraction stop mechanism is implemented, then brush positioning improves, but mechanical wear increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebrush retraction positionVSAvoidmechanical component durability

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical stop mechanisms with an electronic control system using sensors and motor control. This substitution eliminates direct mechanical contact between stopping components, reducing wear while maintaining precise positioning control through electronic means.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The sensor acts as an intermediary between the brush assembly and the control system. Instead of mechanical stops directly contacting and wearing against each other, the sensor detects position and transmits this information electronically to control the motor, eliminating mechanical wear in the stopping mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20250359658A1Handheld Brush Positioner with Retraction Stop Sensing

Publication Date: 2025.11.27 CROSSFORD INTERNATIONAL LLC

AI summary

A tube cleaning apparatus has a handheld brush positioner and a control system for controlling operation of a drive unit, wherein the control system is operable to provide current to a drive motor to cause the drive motor to operate the drive unit to extend or retract a flexible shaft, sleeve and brush; and to receive a stop signal from a stop sensor to terminate retraction thereof.