Curved Sponge Mop Head Attachment for Tool-Free Wringing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mopping systems face issues with complex clamping systems, corrosion, premature failure of threaded fasteners, and difficulty in conforming to desired geometries, especially when subjected to autoclave sterilization, and lack a curved cleaning surface for effective cleaning of non-horizontal surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A mop system featuring a curved support mandrel with a releasable engagement mechanism for a replaceable foam-based mop head and a bucket-supported wringer system that applies shape-conforming pressure for efficient fluid extraction, utilizing a tubular handle connection with spring-biased pin elements and a U-shaped bracket for stability and adjustability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional clamping systems or threaded fasteners are used to attach mop heads, then mechanical connection is achieved, but the system becomes complex, prone to corrosion, and requires tools for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is segmented into a handle structure with an opening and a mop head with a separate attachment element, allowing tool-free connection by simply inserting the attachment element through the opening
Solution Approach 2:
The complex clamping and threaded fastener systems are extracted and replaced with a simple insertion mechanism where the attachment element passes through an opening to achieve secure connection
2Strength
If solid surface connection plates are used to support foam refills, then structural support is provided, but the system becomes difficult to conform to desired geometries
Solution Approach 1:
The connection plate is made from flexible material that can be conformedly attached to various surfaces including curved surfaces, allowing the mop head to adapt to different geometries while maintaining structural support
3Reliability
If traditional attachment systems are used, then mechanical connection is achieved, but the system is prone to damage during autoclave sterilization
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment element and connection plate are designed as disposable components that can withstand autoclave sterilization, allowing the entire attachment system to be replaced rather than repaired after sterilization exposure
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical fasteners susceptible to autoclave damage are replaced with a simple insertion system using autoclave-resistant materials
4Ease of manufacture
If flat cleaning surfaces are used in mop systems, then manufacturing is simplified, but the ability to clean vertical and intermediate surfaces is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connection plate is made flexible to allow the mop head to be conformedly attached to curved surfaces, enabling effective cleaning of vertical and intermediate surfaces while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing processes
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
The system provides a durable, autoclaveable, and versatile cleaning solution with a curved cleaning surface adaptable for various surfaces, reducing maintenance and facilitating efficient cleaning and fluid removal without the need for tools.
Implementation Method 1
tubular handle connection with spring-biased pin elements
Implementation Method 2
bucket-supported wringer system that applies shape-conforming pressure for efficient fluid extraction
Data Source
AI summary
A mop system incorporating a replaceable foam-based mop head. The mop head is adapted to wrap at least partially around a curved support mandrel and to be held in place by releasable engagement between the mandrel and connection elements disposed in localized relation along edge portions of the mop head.