Flat Mop Dual-Trigger Release for Touch-Free Cloth Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hand-operated flat mops require users to directly touch and remove dirty disposable cleaning cloths, which can be unsanitary and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A dual trigger mechanism integrated with a yoke and handle system that allows for 180-degree rotation, enabling the release of disposable microfiber or non-woven cloths without direct contact, using a mechanical plate with dual trigger mechanisms and compression springs to facilitate cloth retention and release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single trigger mechanism is used to remove the cloth, then the operation is simplified, but the reliability of cloth retention is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The single trigger mechanism is segmented into two interlinked trigger members (first and second trigger members) that work together. Each trigger member controls a separate ratchet collar, creating a dual-locking system that enhances reliability while maintaining operational simplicity through the unified trigger structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the handle is fixed in position, then the structural complexity is reduced, but the adaptability of the mop is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is transformed from a fixed component to a dynamic one through the yoke mechanism. The yoke allows the handle to rotate between a first position (for cleaning operation) and a second position (for cloth removal), providing positional flexibility while maintaining structural integrity through the rotatable joint design.
3Force
If compression springs are used to retain the cloth, then the retention force is increased, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression springs are integrated with the ratchet collar mechanism to create a self-retaining system. The springs automatically engage with the ratchet teeth to hold the cloth in place during cleaning, and the trigger mechanism simply needs to disengage the ratchet collars to release the springs, allowing the system to maintain itself without additional control mechanisms.
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 the sanitary and convenient removal of dirty cloths without hand contact, improving user safety and ease of use by allowing the cloth to fall away into a trash receptacle.
Implementation Method 1
a first compression spring extending through a first opening in the mechanical plate and retained in a first compression spring housing in the top plate, a second compression spring extending through a second opening in the mechanical plate and retained in a second compression spring housing in the top plate
Data Source
AI summary
A dual trigger member to release a disposable microfiber cloth or non-woven cloth from a flat mop combined with a yoke and a rotatable handle affixed to the yoke. The flat mop with yoke and rotatable handle and dual trigger allow a user to easily change a disposable cloth without touching the cloth. Further, the yoke allows the handle to rotate 180 degrees relative to the yoke and the perpendicular direction relative to the mop and allows a user 180 degrees of range of movement of the cleaning tool during use resulting in less energy exerted by the user.