Concrete Float Assembly With Vibration and Quick-Release Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing concrete finishing tools lack efficient vibration mechanisms and reliable, quick attachment/release mechanisms, leading to suboptimal finishing quality and increased assembly/disassembly time.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a vibration generator positioned below the pivot axis, quick attach/release mechanisms with passive and active options, and pivot assemblies with gear ratios for easy maneuverability, along with adaptable interfaces for various concrete tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a vibration generator is incorporated into the float apparatus, then finishing quality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vibration generator is integrated directly into the float apparatus structure, merging the vibration function with the existing float body. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate vibration equipment and reduces the number of interfaces required, thereby improving finishing quality while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The float apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: traditional floating/finishing operations and vibration-induced finishing. By making the float apparatus multi-functional, the patent avoids adding separate dedicated vibration devices, thus improving finishing quality without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Loss of time
If a quick attach/release mechanism is implemented, then assembly/disassembly time is reduced, but reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The float apparatus is divided into separable components with standardized interfaces that enable quick attachment and release. The segmentation is designed with precision-machined mating surfaces and alignment features that maintain connection reliability while allowing rapid assembly/disassembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Standardized adapter interfaces act as intermediaries between different concrete tools and the float apparatus. These intermediaries are designed with robust mechanical features that ensure reliable connections during quick attach/release operations, preventing compromise of overall system reliability.
3Ease of operation
If passive securement is used in the attach mechanism, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The attach mechanism is designed to automatically secure components when brought together, without requiring manual fastening actions. The self-securing feature is achieved through spring-loaded latches or cam mechanisms that engage automatically, improving ease of operation while requiring precise manufacturing of the engagement surfaces to ensure reliable automatic securing.
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
Enhances finishing quality, reduces assembly/disassembly time, and allows for versatile tool compatibility, improving efficiency and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
vibrations in a float vibration apparatus are generated at approximately 6000 RPM
Data Source
AI summary
A concrete float, float assembly, float adapter and interface, and float vibration apparatus and methods are described. A concrete float has improved surfaces, and structures for controlling flow of wet concrete. An interface such as may be included in a quick attach/release configuration may be integrated on a float, and/or may be added onto a float for quick attach/release of a pivot assembly. Adapters may ease attachment or release of an assembly, and may be an interengaging element, such as a sliding dovetail as an interengaging element, or an adapter may be used to place an assembly in tension to secure the assembly. A vibration assembly may be included and configured to have a low center of mass, can have a user display, an accelerometer, and/or other components. A pivot assembly may be included for easier use by an operator, and may include a user display, quick release mechanisms.