Cleaning Assembly with Collet-Based Head Coupling for Easy Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning tools, such as brushes, often require frequent cleaning or replacement due to the difficulty in efficiently engaging and disengaging the head from the handle, leading to inefficient cleaning processes and waste.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning assembly with a handle and head portion that utilizes a collet assembly for easy engagement and disengagement, allowing for rotational and tilting movements, and a release mechanism for effortless removal of the head from the handle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single-unit brush structure is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but cleaning efficiency decreases due to frequent replacement needs
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device is divided into separate functional modules: a handle assembly and a head assembly that can be independently removed and replaced. The head assembly includes a brush head with bristles mounted on a hub that couples to the handle, allowing the cleaning element to be replaced without discarding the entire tool.
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows the head assembly to be discarded after use and replaced with a new one, while the handle assembly is recovered and retained for continued use. This separates the disposable cleaning element from the reusable tool body, improving productivity while managing complexity through standardized coupling mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If the head is permanently affixed to the handle, then structural stability is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in cleaning and replacing the head
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism transitions from a static permanent connection to a dynamic removable connection. The hub includes external threads that engage with internal threads in the handle, creating a mechanically stable connection during use that can be easily disengaged when cleaning or replacement is needed, thus improving ease of operation while maintaining reliability during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub acts as an intermediary component between the head and handle, providing a standardized interface with threaded coupling. This mediator element enables both stable connection during use and easy removal when needed, resolving the contradiction between connection stability and ease of replacement.
3Ease of operation
If a simple attachment mechanism is used, then ease of operation improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded coupling mechanism is designed to be self-aligning and self-locking. When the head assembly is pushed onto the handle, the external threads on the hub automatically engage with the internal threads in the handle, providing both precise alignment and secure connection without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms or high-precision manual assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded interface transforms the engagement process from a simple friction-fit to a mechanically interlocked connection through thread engagement. This parameter change in the coupling mechanism provides both ease of operation through a push-on motion and manufacturing precision through standardized thread geometries that guide proper alignment during assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a cleaning assembly having a handle and head portion. The head portion may be coupled to the handle portion. The coupling or engagement may include a fitment formed on or with the head portion and a collet assembly provided with a handle portion.