Elastomeric Rake Connector With Biasing Force for Leaf Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rake connectors fail to provide a secure and efficient means to scoop and transfer large quantities of leaves from piles to trash cans, due to loose connections, lack of biasing force, and high stress on pivot bearing surfaces, leading to premature failure and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A single-piece elastomeric rake connector made from high durometer polyurethane, featuring a 'FIG. 8' design with bores for rake handles and inwardly protruding ridges for grip, providing a firm connection and significant biasing force to hold leaves in place during transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rubber connector is used to join two rakes, then the connection is flexible and easy to manufacture, but the connection becomes loose and provides insufficient biasing force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from standard rubber to high durometer polyurethane (durometer 60-80 Shore A), which fundamentally alters the material's stiffness and load-bearing characteristics while retaining elastomeric properties. This parameter change enables the connector to provide both flexibility and sufficient biasing force simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses polyurethane, a composite polymer material that combines the elasticity of rubber with the strength and stiffness of harder plastics. This composite material provides both the flexibility needed for elastomeric connection and the structural integrity to generate significant biasing force through its resistance to deformation
2Strength
If a mechanical pivot mechanism with multiple parts is used, then the connector provides robust connection and biasing force, but the device complexity increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the connector body, pivot bearing surfaces, and biasing mechanism into a single integrated elastomeric component. The biasing force is generated inherently by the elastomeric material's resistance to deformation rather than by separate springs or mechanical elements, eliminating the need for multiple parts while maintaining connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical pivot mechanisms (with separate bearings, springs, and fasteners) with an elastomeric material that provides pivot functionality through its inherent elasticity and damping properties. The mechanical system is substituted with a material-based solution that achieves the same functional outcomes with fewer components
3Strength
If a mechanical pivot mechanism is used, then the connector provides robust connection, but the pivot bearing surfaces are highly stressed and subject to premature failure
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric material inherently cushions and distributes stresses before they can concentrate on specific bearing surfaces. The material's elasticity absorbs shock loads and prevents the high-stress concentration that leads to premature failure in rigid mechanical pivot systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter from rigid or semi-rigid materials to high durometer elastomer, which fundamentally alters the stress distribution characteristics. This parameter change transforms the stress concentration problem into a stress distribution advantage, improving reliability
4Ease of manufacture
If a loose rubber connector is used, then the connector is easy to manufacture, but the connector stretches and degrades quickly requiring frequent replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from standard rubber to high durometer polyurethane, which has superior resistance to stretching, degradation, and environmental factors. This parameter change extends service life while maintaining ease of manufacturing through similar molding 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 elastomeric rake connector offers a robust, cost-effective solution that securely holds leaves between rake tongs, reducing user strain and improving efficiency in transferring debris without the need for frequent replacements.
Implementation Method 1
The dimensions combined with the stiffness of the constituent material provides both a firm connection between two rakes and a significant biasing force
Implementation Method 2
The portions surrounding each of the bores form a plurality of walls which can provide frictional grip on the rake shafts
Data Source
AI summary
The single piece connector is made from a tear resistant, and relatively high durometer elastomer, such as polyurethane. The connector has two adjacent bores separated by a common wall in which the shafts of two rakes can be firmly received. The connector's dimensions combined with the stiffness of the constituent material provide a significant restoritive biasing force when the rakes are pivoted relative to the connector that helps hold a load of scooped leaves between the associated rake heads as the head are maneuvered to a desired container for deposit.