Mopping system attachment mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mop systems require manual disengagement of the attachment frame from the mop head, which can be difficult and may lead to cross-contamination, especially in critical environments.
Innovation Solution
A hands-free releasable attachment mechanism using a spring-loaded locking bar and a tensioning cable or lever system allows the mop head to be disengaged from the attachment frame without direct contact, facilitated by articulating inboard arms and outboard rail members that secure to the mop head backer plate through a camming action.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a snap-on attachment mechanism is used to secure the frame to the mop head, then secure attachment is achieved, but manual disengagement becomes difficult and may require protective gloves
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism transitions from a static snap-on design to a dynamic system with movable inboard arms and rail members that can be actuated between locked and unlocked positions through camming action, enabling easy disengagement while maintaining secure attachment during use
Solution Approach 2:
A cable or wireless actuation system serves as an intermediary mechanism that transmits user input from the handle to the attachment frame, enabling remote release of the mop head without direct contact with the contaminated surface
2Device complexity
If manual contact with the mop head is required for disengagement, then simple mechanism design is maintained, but cross-contamination risk increases in critical environments
Solution Approach 1:
The cable or wireless actuation system acts as an intermediary that allows the user to operate the release mechanism from a clean zone (handle) without touching the contaminated mop head, effectively eliminating cross-contamination risk while adding controlled complexity to the system
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment frame is segmented into movable components (inboard arms, rail members) that can be independently actuated, allowing the release function to be separated from the attachment function and controlled remotely
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 secure attachment and easy, hygienic detachment of the mop head from the frame, reducing the risk of cross-contamination and enhancing user safety in various environments.
Implementation Method 1
A spring-loaded locking bar may be used to aid in holding the rail members in place and maintaining secure engagement between the attachment frame and the backer plate during use.
Implementation Method 2
The attachment frame may be pressed against a raised or depressed center zone on the backer plate thereby causing the arms to rotate inwardly in a camming action and pressing the rail members under outwardly projecting lips on raised surface elements
Data Source
AI summary
A mop tool incorporating an attachment frame which can be pressed into place in locking relation across a disposable mop head backer plate. The attachment mechanism is releasable following use by a suitable technique such that the mop head can thereby be disengaged from the attachment frame without any need for the user to touch the mop head. The attachment frame may be pressed against a raised or depressed center zone on the backer plate thereby causing camming arms to rotate and moving operatively connected outboard rail members to a locked position. When detachment is desired, the prior rotation may be reversed thereby releasing the rail members such that the mop head can fall away.