Portable Grout Auger Assembly for Precise Ergonomic Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grout application methods are inefficient and cumbersome, lacking a portable and ergonomic solution for effectively dispensing grout onto work surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A portable grout device featuring a grout hopper, cylindrical tube, drive shaft, and auger assembly with a helical screw, driven by a handheld torque generator, which efficiently dispenses grout through a cylindrical tube portion and includes a removable end cap and adaptor for redirecting the flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional grout application methods are used, then grout can be applied to work surfaces, but the process is inefficient and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional segments: a hopper for grout storage, a cylindrical tube for controlled delivery, and an auger assembly for precise dispensing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, transforming the cumbersome traditional method into a streamlined process where grout flows systematically from storage to application point.
Solution Approach 2:
The auger assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the grout hopper and the work surface. It receives grout from the hopper, controls its flow through the cylindrical tube, and precisely dispenses it at the desired location. This intermediary device eliminates the inefficiency of direct manual application while maintaining ease of operation through simple torque input.
2Ease of operation
If a portable grout device is designed, then user fatigue is reduced and precision is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to be self-contained and self-operating within its portable form. The hopper automatically feeds grout to the auger assembly, which self-regulates the dispensing process through rotational motion. The cylindrical tube self-directs the grout flow to the application point. This self-service design eliminates the need for complex external controls or multiple operators, reducing user fatigue while maintaining manageable device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable grout device integrates multiple functions into a single compact unit: storage (hopper), transport (cylindrical tube), dispensing (auger assembly), and positioning (portable design). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate tools and equipment, enhancing ease of operation without proportionally increasing complexity, as all functions share a common structural platform.
3Manufacturing precision
If grout is dispensed through a cylindrical tube, then precision in grout distribution is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cylindrical tube provides a localized, controlled pathway for grout delivery directly to the application point. This localized delivery system ensures precision by confining the grout flow to a specific trajectory, preventing dispersion or misplacement. The tube's structure is simple yet effective, providing precision without requiring complex delivery mechanisms or multiple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The cylindrical tube utilizes its curved, circular cross-section to efficiently channel grout flow. The circular geometry provides uniform flow characteristics and smooth transitions, enhancing precision in grout distribution. This simple curved shape achieves precise delivery without the need for complex internal structures or additional guiding components.
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 device provides a lightweight, ergonomic, and efficient means to apply grout, reducing user fatigue and enhancing precision in grout distribution on various surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a helical auger screw operable to push the grout out of an end of the cylindrical tube portion
Implementation Method 2
a drive shaft and auger assembly within the cylindrical tube portion... a helical auger screw operable to push the grout
Implementation Method 3
a disk-shaped thrust washer formed upon the central shaft... held within the cylindrical tube portion during operation
Data Source
AI summary
A portable grout device is provided. The device includes a grout hopper, a cylindrical tube portion connected to and operable to receive grout from the grout hopper, and a drive shaft and auger assembly within the cylindrical tube portion. The drive shaft and auger assembly includes a central shaft and a helical auger screw operable to push the grout out of an end of the cylindrical tube portion.