Rake Handle Adapter Assembly for Scissor Debris Tongs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing yard maintenance tools, particularly rakes, require multiple devices for debris collection and transportation, often causing back strain and are cumbersome, with existing conversion methods leading to handle breakage or misalignment.
Innovation Solution
An adapter that converts two rakes into scissor tongs using a receiver with a sliding assembly and securing components, allowing handles to slide and rotate, maintaining alignment and reducing strain by mimicking scissor motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lawn and garden tools are used for debris collection and transportation, then the functionality and versatility are improved, but the device complexity and storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate rakes into a single integrated scissor tong device. The adapter assembly connects two rake handles together, allowing them to function as a unified tool for both raking and debris collection/transportation. This merging eliminates the need for separate collection tools while maintaining multiple functionalities.
Solution Approach 2:
The scissor tong adapter enables the rakes to perform multiple functions: traditional raking, debris collection, and transportation. The adapter assembly with its basket component allows the same tool to collect and transport debris, making it a universal yard maintenance tool that replaces multiple specialized tools.
2Productivity
If traditional raking and lifting methods are used, then the debris can be collected and transported, but the stress on the user's back and upper body increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scissor tong adapter allows debris to be collected and transported at ground level without requiring the user to bend down repeatedly. The basket component sits on the ground, and the scissor mechanism allows the user to operate from an upright position, eliminating the harmful bending motion that causes back strain.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user and the debris. Instead of directly lifting and carrying heavy debris, the user operates the scissor tong mechanism which mechanically lifts and transports the debris, reducing the direct physical stress on the user's body.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing conversion methods are used to combine rakes, then the handle alignment and structural integrity deteriorate due to breakage or misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly serves as an intermediary component that properly connects the two rake handles. It includes alignment features and securing mechanisms (screws, bolts, or rivets) that ensure the handles are correctly positioned and firmly attached, preventing misalignment and breakage that occur with direct connection methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter assembly is pre-configured with alignment features and attachment mechanisms before the rakes are combined. The notched slot and securing components are prepared in advance to ensure proper handle alignment and structural integrity during the conversion process, preventing improper assembly and subsequent failures.
Data Source
AI summary
Interface adapters are shown that allow, with minimal modification, the coupling of two separate rakes for use as ‘scissor yard waste tongs’ while at the same time allowing for their separate use as ‘regular’ rakes. These adapters provide the significant advantage of allowing ergonomically correct motions for their operators, while they minimize the need to bring additional tools in performing their work tasks.