Pole Sander Pivot Head and Telescopic Dust Extraction

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional pole sanders often face challenges in efficiently managing dust and debris during operation, and there is a need for a more ergonomic and adjustable design that enhances user convenience and effectiveness.

Innovation Solution

A handheld pole sander with a telescopic elongate body, a pivotally mounted sanding head driven by a DC brushless motor, and an integrated dust extraction system using a flexible pipe and brush ring, along with a adjustable length mechanism and ergonomic handle for improved usability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If a telescopic pole is used to extend reach, then the sanding capability on high surfaces is improved, but the device becomes heavier and more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereach distanceVSAvoidtelescopic mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pole is divided into multiple telescopic sections that can extend and retract independently. Each section has its own bearing and sealing system, allowing the pole to achieve extended reach while maintaining manageable size and weight when retracted. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by providing length when needed while minimizing complexity and storage footprint.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Object-generated harmful factors

If dust extraction is integrated into the sanding head, then dust management efficiency is improved, but the sanding head weight and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedust extraction efficiencyVSAvoidsanding head structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The dust extraction system is merged with the sanding head by integrating a collection chamber directly into the head structure, with the platen serving dual purposes as both sanding surface and dust collection lid. The bearing housing also serves as part of the dust extraction pathway. This merging reduces the need for separate dust collection components and simplifies the overall structure while maintaining effective dust extraction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The platen serves multiple functions: as the sanding surface, as the lid for the dust collection chamber, and as a structural component that integrates with the bearing housing. The bearing housing serves both as a mechanical support and as part of the dust extraction pathway. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed, thereby reducing complexity while improving dust management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If the sanding head is made adjustable and pivotable, then ease of operation on different surfaces is improved, but the mechanism complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadjustabilityVSAvoidadjustment mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sanding head is designed with dynamic adjustment capabilities, allowing the user to pivot and tilt the head to different angles during operation. The telescopic pole sections can also be adjusted independently. These dynamic features enable adaptation to various surface geometries while using relatively simple mechanical joints and locking mechanisms rather than complex automated systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 solution effectively manages dust and debris through efficient suction, provides ergonomic handling, and allows for adjustable length to suit various tasks, enhancing user convenience and operational effectiveness.

Implementation Method 1

The output spindle and hence the platen, is rotated by an electric motor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

A vacuum cleaner can be attached to the sanding head, typically via a nozzle which connects to a pipe which extends through the telescopic pole, to remove dust generated by the sanding action

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuction: Suction

Data Source

PatentEP3812093A1Pole sander
Publication Date: 2021.04.28 BLACK & DECKER CORP
  • EP3812093A1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP3812093A1 patent drawingFigure 4
  • EP3812093A1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

A handheld pole sander for sanding, polishing, grinding or rubbing a work surface comprising: an elongate body (102) having two ends and a longitudinal axis; a sanding head (100) attached via a pivot mechanism (110) to a first end of the elongate body (102); wherein the sanding head (100) comprises: a hood (112) comprising a plate (156) and a sidewall (162) to form a chamber (166); an output spindle (118) which projects from the hood (112) into the chamber (166); a centre of gravity (242); an electric motor (114) mounted on the hood which, when activated, rotatingly drives the output spindle (118) about an axis; characterised in that the pivot mechanism allows the sanding head to pivot around a first axis of pivot (232) which extends in a direction which is perpendicular to the direction of the longitudinal axis of the elongate body and which first axis is located on the sanding head forward (D) of the centre of gravity (242).