Foldable Mop Plate Release Lock for Easier Unfolding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable wiper plates are difficult to unfold due to the opposing directions of force required for releasing the locking mechanism and lifting the handle, making the process dexterous, strenuous, and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A foldable wiper plate design with a release device that can be fixed in a release position, allowing easy and reliable unlocking and folding, where the user can operate the release device with their foot, enabling the wiper plate to automatically fall into a folded position when lifted by the handle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the release pawl is pressed down to release the locking connection, then the locking connection is released, but the user must simultaneously pull the handle up, creating opposing force directions that make operation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the operational sequence: instead of pressing the release pawl while pulling the handle up (opposing forces), the handle is pulled up first to automatically trigger the release pawl through mechanical linkage. This reversal eliminates the conflict between opposing force directions while maintaining reliable locking during normal use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mechanical intermediary system where the handle's upward movement is mechanically linked to the release pawl. This intermediary linkage automatically translates the user's lifting action into the pawl's release motion, eliminating the need for direct simultaneous operation of two opposing forces.
2Ease of operation
If the user exerts too much force on the release pawl, then the locking connection can be released, but the wiper plate cannot be lifted with the handle
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical intermediary linkage ensures that the release pawl is actuated automatically by the handle's upward movement. This prevents the user from applying excessive force directly to the pawl, as the linkage controls the pawl's motion and ensures it only releases when the handle is properly lifted, maintaining both ease of operation and lifting reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically preparing the release pawl for engagement as the handle is lifted. The mechanical linkage ensures the pawl is positioned and actuated in the correct sequence before the lifting force is fully applied, preventing force mismatches and ensuring reliable operation.
3Reliability
If the user exerts too little force on the release pawl, then the wiper plate can be lifted with the handle, but the locking connection is not released
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical intermediary linkage eliminates the need for the user to judge the correct amount of force to apply to the release pawl. The linkage automatically translates the handle's upward movement into sufficient pawl actuation force, ensuring the locking connection is reliably released without requiring the user to apply excessive or precisely calibrated force.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically providing the necessary force to actuate the release pawl through the mechanical linkage. The user's lifting action on the handle automatically generates the required force on the pawl through the intermediary mechanism, eliminating the need for the user to manually apply complex force combinations.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the wiper plate is lifted while the locking connection is maintained, then the plate can be held stable, but the entire wiper plate tilts away to the side instead of folding
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical linkage performs preliminary action by automatically releasing the locking connection before the wiper plate completes its folding motion. As the handle is lifted, the linkage ensures the pawl disengages from the locking projection in advance, allowing the plate to fold smoothly without tilting or maintaining unstable locked positions during the transition.
Data Source
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AI summary
Stopping/locking devices (11,15) fastens a plate blade (3) in an operating position so as to be released again. A releasing device (25) releases the locking devices and can be transferred according to choice into a locking or release position. It is designed so that the releasing device can be fixed in a releasing position but released again. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) A cleaning device with a strut and collapsible windscreen wiper plate; (2) A cleaning system with a drying, preferably flinging, device and a collapsible windscreen wiper plate.