Modular Pool Rake Neck Assembly With Snap-Fit Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pool rakes suffer from weak neck designs that break easily under normal use, requiring frequent replacement and involving cumbersome tool-based disassembly processes, which can lead to damage and injury.
Innovation Solution
A modular design featuring a reinforced neck assembly with a 'Y' configuration, a locking tubular sleeve, and a double-buttoned retaining clip, allowing for tool-free disassembly and assembly, and enabling easy replacement of parts, thereby enhancing durability and usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If traditional retaining means (screwdriver, wrench, or other tool) are used to disassemble the rake for replacement of parts, then the parts can be replaced, but the disassembly process is awkward and difficult, which can damage the net, frame, and/or clip, or injure the user's hands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical fastening system (screws, clips requiring tools) with a snap-fit retention system. The net is held to the frame by elastic biasing members that engage with recesses in the frame, allowing tool-free attachment and detachment. This substitution eliminates the need for screwdrivers or wrenches while providing secure retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention system is designed to be self-retaining through elastic biasing members that automatically hold the net in place without external fasteners. The system serves itself by using the elastic deformation of the biasing members to create retaining force, eliminating the need for additional retaining devices or tools.
2Ease of manufacture
If the neck is designed to be lightweight and simple, then manufacturing is easier, but the neck cannot withstand the forces generated during normal use, leading to frequent breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite construction for the neck assembly, combining rigid structural components (frame made of rigid polymeric material or metal) with flexible elastic biasing members. This composite approach allows the neck to withstand substantial forces while remaining manufacturable using molding or extrusion processes for the rigid parts and simple fabrication for the elastic elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The neck assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: the frame structure, elastic biasing members, net material, and connection points. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while simplifying manufacturing and assembly. The modular design enables replacement of individual components without replacing the entire neck assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved tool for cleaning debris from swimming pools is provided. The tool generally comprises a frame, a net covering the mouth portion of the frame, and a modular handle/net assembly which engages the proximal “Y” portion of the frame and a multi-buttoned pole retaining clip. In certain embodiments, the handle/net has a modular design where a top stem assembly engages a bottom stem assembly which, when in this joined configuration, encloses a double-buttoned retaining clip and a portion of a frame support bar which extends from the frame. The top stem assembly and bottom stem assembly are designed to receive a locking tubular sleeve which cooperates coaxially with the outside circular rear body portion of the joined top stem assembly and bottom stem assembly and is secured in place using the double-bottomed retaining clip.