Flat headed mop and method of operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional flat mops face issues with dirty water reuse during cleaning, as the water used for cleaning becomes contaminated, and the amount of water in the microfiber pad is not easily adjustable for different floor types, requiring significant effort to manage.
Innovation Solution
A flat mop design featuring a hinge and biasing member that automatically configures the mop head for easy insertion into a wringer, allowing for separation of dirty water and adjustable water absorption based on floor type without additional user effort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the same water is used to both clean and recharge the microfiber pad, then the cleaning process is simplified, but the water becomes dirty after the first use and dirty water is spread on the floor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the water management function into two separate systems: a clean water reservoir for recharging the microfiber pad and a dirty water reservoir for collecting used water. This segmentation prevents contamination of clean water and eliminates the spread of dirty water on floors, while maintaining operational simplicity through automatic water transfer mechanisms.
2Quantity of substance
If the microfiber pad is pressed against a plate to control water amount, then water release can be achieved, but significant user effort is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-regulating water release mechanism where the microfiber pad automatically releases the required amount of water through capillary action and gravity when inserted into the clean water reservoir. The system eliminates the need for manual pressing against a plate, allowing the pad to self-adjust its water content based on the floor type and cleaning requirements without significant user effort.
3Productivity
If the microfiber pad contains a large amount of water, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but the pad becomes too heavy and difficult to maneuver
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic water management system where the microfiber pad's water content can be adjusted in real-time based on cleaning requirements. The pad can be recharged with water from the clean reservoir during operation, allowing users to maintain optimal water levels for cleaning effectiveness while avoiding excessive weight by only adding water when needed, rather than carrying a constantly water-heavy pad.
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 solution prevents the spread of contaminated water and allows for efficient water management, ensuring cleaner floors and reduced user effort in maintaining the mop's water content.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member coupled between the head member and the first portion, wherein the biasing member acts to rotate the head member against the pole
Data Source
AI summary
A method of using a flat headed mop is provided. The method includes cleaning a surface with the mop pad, then rotating the mop head into the folded position at a instance with a biasing member coupled to a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly being disposed between the mop head and a mop pole. Next, inserting the mop head into a first fluid to remove contaminants from the mop pad, then inserting the mop head into a wringing assembly to remove at least a portion of the first fluid.