Oblate Spheroid Mop Handle Grip With Flange-Based Trigger Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current liquid dispensing or spray mops are uncomfortable to use, prone to sliding and falling, and lack a top grip that addresses all usage scenarios, leading to user fatigue and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A multi-functional handle apparatus with a cylindrical elongate section, an oblate spheroid top section with a high-friction thermoplastic elastomer rubber gripping band, and a flange section that extends beyond the trigger to prevent floor impact, facilitating ergonomic grip and preventing the mop from sliding or falling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the handle is designed with a simple trigger mechanism, then the device structure is simple, but the trigger is prone to damage when the mop falls and the user experience is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The flange section extends beyond the trigger to create a protective overhang that prevents the trigger from contacting the floor when the mop is dropped. This beforehand protective structure eliminates the need for complex protective mechanisms while ensuring trigger safety.
2Ease of operation
If the handle has no top grip, then the structure is simple, but the user experiences fatigue and injury from gripping tightly and holding the wrist at odd angles
Solution Approach 1:
The oblate spheroid section with gripping band is added only at the top end of the handle where grip is needed, while the rest of the handle maintains a simple cylindrical structure. This localized addition provides ergonomic benefits without significantly increasing overall structural complexity.
3Reliability
If the handle is leaned against a wall without a gripping feature, then the structure is simple, but the handle slides and falls to the floor
Solution Approach 1:
The oblate spheroid section with high-friction gripping band is positioned at the top end of the handle specifically to provide wall-contacting surface area and friction. This localized feature prevents sliding while maintaining a relatively simple overall handle structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The oblate spheroid shape provides a curved surface that increases contact area with the wall compared to a flat or cylindrical surface. This geometric modification enhances frictional engagement and stability when the handle is leaned against a wall.
4Ease of operation
If the trigger extends beyond the flange, then the trigger is easily accessible, but the trigger is exposed to damage when the mop falls
Solution Approach 1:
The flange section is designed to extend beyond the trigger, creating a protective overhang that prevents the trigger from contacting the floor during drops. This beforehand protective structure ensures trigger safety while maintaining accessibility.
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 handle apparatus reduces user fatigue, prevents the mop from sliding and falling, and protects the trigger from damage, providing a comfortable and secure grip for various cleaning tasks.
Implementation Method 1
a high-friction thermoplastic elastomer rubber gripping band... facilitates frictional engagement with a wall surface
Data Source
AI summary
A handle apparatus includes a substantially elongate cylindrical section, a bulbous top section formed at the top of the elongate cylindrical section, and a flange section formed proximate the bottom of the cylindrical section. A trigger can be positioned within a recess formed in the elongate cylindrical section. The flange can extend outwardly from the elongate cylindrical section a greater distance than the trigger to prevent damage to the trigger if the handle falls to the ground. The bulbous section can have an oblate spheroid shape, and a gripping band that provides a comfortable grip to the user and helps prevent the handle from slipping when leaned against a wall. The handle can be utilized on a cleaning implement, such as a liquid dispensing mop.