Quick-Release Squeegee Assembly for Faster Blade Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing floor surface cleaning equipment squeegee assemblies are cumbersome to assemble and disassemble, particularly in dirty environments, due to the use of threaded fasteners which are difficult to manage and lead to time-consuming blade replacement, especially in harsh conditions where squeegee blades frequently need to be replaced.
Innovation Solution
A quick release squeegee assembly with a single release latch that connects and secures the squeegee assembly to the brush deck using corresponding locating structures, allowing for easy alignment and secure attachment, and can be removed with a single latch actuation, simplifying the process of attaching and detaching the squeegee blades.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded fasteners are used to secure the squeegee assembly, then the connection is strong and reliable, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes time-consuming and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is segmented into a latch mechanism with multiple functional components: a latch body, engagement protrusion, recess, spring, and handle. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function, enabling quick release while maintaining secure connection during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism transitions from a static threaded fastener system to a dynamic system with movable components. The spring-loaded engagement protrusion can be easily engaged and disengaged by moving the handle, allowing rapid blade replacement while maintaining reliable connection during cleaning operations.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple threaded knobs are used to secure the squeegee assembly, then the connection is stable, but the operational complexity and difficulty of maintenance increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple threaded knobs are merged into a single integrated latch mechanism. The latch body combines the functions of multiple fasteners into one unified component that can be operated by a single handle, simplifying maintenance while maintaining assembly stability through the engagement protrusion and recess design.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded latch mechanism provides self-service functionality where the spring automatically maintains engagement pressure and the handle provides self-contained operation. The operator simply needs to move the handle to engage or disengage the latch, eliminating the need for tools or complex manual manipulation of multiple fasteners.
3Productivity
If a single release latch is used to connect the squeegee assembly, then the ease of operation and blade replacement speed improves, but the connection strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The spring is pre-loaded to store mechanical energy that provides continuous engagement pressure on the squeegee assembly. This preliminary action ensures that the connection maintains sufficient strength during operation, while the handle enables rapid release when needed, achieving both high productivity and adequate connection strength.
Data Source
AI summary
A surface maintenance vehicle with quick release squeegee assembly and a method of connecting a squeegee assembly to the brush deck of a floor surface maintenance vehicle. A single release latch may be used to connect and disconnect the squeegee assembly and the brush deck. When engaged, corresponding locating structures on the brush deck and a frame of the squeegee assembly align the brush deck and the frame and provide points where the relative movement between the brush deck and frame are restricted.