Pool Brush Fulcrum Device Reduces Physical Effort
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cleaning swimming pool walls with a standard pole and brush is physically strenuous, requiring significant effort and uncomfortable body positions to apply adequate pressure, especially for deep walls, which limits effective algae removal and is exhausting for most individuals.
Innovation Solution
A device with a fulcrum component that supports a pool brush pole, allowing it to pivot and reduce the force needed for effective cleaning, featuring a rigid frame with an opening for the pole and an immobilizing element like footpads or a cord to maintain the device's position, enabling easier and more efficient brushing by leveraging the user's force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard pole and brush assembly is used to clean pool walls, then the user can reach deep walls, but the user must exert significant physical force and adopt uncomfortable body positions
Solution Approach 1:
The fulcrum device acts as an intermediary between the user and the pool wall, providing a pivot point that multiplies the user's applied force. The device includes a fulcrum surface and support structure that enables mechanical advantage, allowing the brush to press against the wall with greater force than the user could directly apply, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and cleaning effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a new spatial dimension by positioning the fulcrum at an angle to the pool wall rather than directly against it. This angular arrangement creates a lever arm that extends perpendicular to the wall surface, enabling the user to apply force in a more ergonomic direction while achieving effective brush pressure through mechanical advantage
2Productivity
If the user applies adequate pressure to the brush on deep pool walls, then effective algae removal is achieved, but the user experiences physical exhaustion and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The fulcrum device serves as a mechanical intermediary that amplifies the user's input force. By positioning the fulcrum closer to the brush contact point and providing a stable pivot, the device creates a class 1 lever system where the user's force is multiplied, achieving effective algae removal without requiring the user to exert excessive physical effort or adopt strained body positions
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables dynamic force application through the fulcrum mechanism. The user can apply force in a controlled, rhythmic manner rather than maintaining constant static pressure, allowing for more comfortable and sustainable cleaning operations while maintaining effective brush contact with the pool wall
3Adaptability or versatility
If the user stoops, bends, squats and twists to clean deep walls, then the brush can reach all areas, but the body position becomes uncomfortable and strenuous
Solution Approach 1:
The fulcrum device changes the dimensional relationship between the user and the pool wall by introducing an angular pivot point. This allows the user to maintain a more upright, comfortable body position while the fulcrum's angular orientation provides the necessary reach and leverage to clean deep wall areas, eliminating the need for stooping, bending, squatting, and twisting
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 device reduces the physical effort required to clean pool walls by allowing users to apply less force while achieving the same or improved cleaning results, making it easier for individuals of smaller stature to remove algae without bending the pole excessively, thus reducing fatigue and improving comfort during the cleaning process.
Implementation Method 1
a device having a fulcrum, when used as disclosed herein with a standard pole and pool brush assembly, reduces the amount of force a person must exert in order to provide the same or improved cleaning of a pool wall
Data Source
AI summary
A device is disclosed comprising a rigid frame having disposed thereon at least one opening for receiving a pole of a pool brush, the device further having means for securing the device in stationary position. The opening has a perimeter defining a surface adapted for use as a fulcrum. Means for securing the device may be one or a plurality of footpads, or it may be an elongated cord connected to the frame and adapted to secure about a stationary object.