Convertible Broom Pivot Latch Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing brooms with angular adjustment mechanisms are inconvenient to operate, introduce looseness in the connection between the handle and broom head, and are overly complex, making quick and practical switching between push and straight configurations difficult.

Innovation Solution

A pivot latch mechanism with a spring-loaded locking element and locator features allows for manual adjustment of the broom head's angle relative to the handle, ensuring a rigid connection and easy conversion between configurations using a sleeve grip and cross pin system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a pivot latch mechanism with spring-loaded locking element is used, then the ease of operation is improved and connection rigidity is maintained, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spring-loaded locking element automatically engages with the locator features to maintain the broom head angle without requiring manual intervention for locking. The mechanism serves itself by using spring force to maintain engagement and gravity to assist in the pivoting action, reducing the operational steps needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustment mechanism is divided into distinct functional components: the spring-loaded locking element for engagement/disengagement, the locator features for positioning, and the operator member for actuation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall operation simple.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If existing angle adjustment mechanisms are used, then angular adjustment capability is provided, but excessive looseness is introduced in the connection

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveangular adjustment capabilityVSAvoidconnection rigidity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The spring-loaded locking element is pre-positioned to automatically engage with the locator features as the broom head pivots into place. This preliminary engagement ensures that the connection is locked immediately upon reaching the desired angle, preventing any excessive looseness or play in the connection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If existing adjustment mechanisms are used, then angle change capability is provided, but the adjustment process is too time consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveangle change capabilityVSAvoidadjustment time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanism allows for rapid periodic adjustment between different broom configurations. The spring-loaded element and gravity-assisted pivoting enable quick transition from one locked position to another, making the adjustment process suitable for frequent use during sweeping operations without significant time loss.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

4Device complexity

If a simple adjustment mechanism is used, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to maintain rigid connection is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidconnection rigidity

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The spring-loaded locking element acts as an intermediary between the operator member and the broom head. It translates the simple pulling action on the operator member into a secure mechanical engagement with the locator features, maintaining connection rigidity while keeping the operating interface simple.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enables quick, convenient, and secure angular adjustments of the broom head without excessive looseness, allowing seamless transitions between push and straight broom configurations during use.

Implementation Method 1

a locking element spring loaded to engage one of the locator features and moved out of engagement by movement of the operator member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

when released and the broom is held correctly, the broom head will pivot by gravity from one position to another

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS8127392B2Convertible broom

Publication Date: 2012.03.06 WILSON RICHARD

AI summary

A convertible broom having a broom head able to be selectively latched in either of two pivoted angular positions with respect to a broom handle. A latch mechanism includes a sleeve grip slidable on the handle to move a locking feature into and out of engagement with either of two locator features or pairs of locator features on a head bracket pivotally mounted to one end of the handle. On locator feature (or pair of features) is aligned with the locking feature with the broom head in a straight configuration, the other locator feature aligned with the locking feature with the broom head in a push broom configuration.