Multi-function cleaning tool

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hand-held multi-function cleaning tools are often complex and inconvenient to use, particularly when switching between cleaning functions, and lack a reliable and quick method for attaching and releasing cleaning cloths.

Innovation Solution

A multi-function cleaning tool with a longitudinal, rectangular frame part featuring a turning joint for easy function switching between bristles and a squeegee, along with releasable attachments and engagement elements for cleaning cloths, allowing for propeller-like movement and secure cloth attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple cleaning functions (mopping, brushing, squeegeeing) are integrated into one tool, then cleaning versatility is improved, but device complexity increases and makes function switching inconvenient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning function versatilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cleaning tool is divided into separate functional modules (mop head with bristles, squeegee blade, cloth attachment points) that can be independently attached or removed from the handle. This segmentation allows the user to have a single multi-functional tool while keeping each functional component simple and distinct, avoiding the need for complex integrated mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mop head assembly is designed with rotational capability around a vertical axis, allowing dynamic repositioning between different cleaning functions. The head can be rotated to present either the bristle side or squeegee side facing downward, enabling quick function switching without complex disassembly or multiple fixed configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If cleaning cloths are quickly attachable and releasable, then ease of operation is improved, but attachment reliability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecloth attachment speedVSAvoidattachment reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The engagement elements are designed as separate, removable components that can be quickly inserted into or removed from corresponding receptacles on the mop head. This extraction-based attachment system allows cloths to be rapidly secured or released by simply plugging in or pulling out the engagement elements, providing both speed and reliability through a simple mechanical connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentEP4039163B1Multi-function cleaning tool
Publication Date: 2023.12.20 REAX INNOVATIONS OY
  • EP4039163B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP4039163B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2B
  • EP4039163B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~4

AI summary

The invention relates to a multi-function cleaning tool, which cleaning tool (10) comprises a frame part (11), which frame part (11) is longitudinal and substantially rectangular in shape, which cleaning tool (10) comprises a mounting part (16) for a handle arm, and engagement elements (20) for a cleaning cloth. The frame part (11) further comprises on one longitudinally extending side bristles (17) and on other longitudinally extending side a squeegee (12). The frame part (11) comprises a head surface (19) to which the mounting part (16) is attached by a turning joint (15) and to which the engagement elements (20) are attached, and the turning joint (15) for the mounting part (16) is located in middle part of the head surface (19) of the frame part (11) and configured to provide a turning movement (R) of the frame part (11) around its center such that depending on need of cleaning either the longitudinal side of the bristles (17) is locatable against a floor or corresponding surface to be cleaned or the longitudinal side of the squeegee (12) is locatable against the floor or corresponding surface to be cleaned.