Spin Mop Clutch Screw Drive for Low-Force Water Wringing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional mops require greater strength to operate and are not ergonomic, making them difficult to use effectively for water removal, whereas existing spin mops with rotational mechanisms can be cumbersome and lack efficiency in debris separation.
Innovation Solution
A spin mop design featuring a screw drive mechanism that translates reciprocating linear motion into rotational motion of the mop head for water wringing, utilizing a clutch assembly with helical teeth engaging threaded panels to facilitate easy spinning and disengagement, allowing for efficient water removal and debris separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mops are used for water removal, then they can remove water from floors, but they require greater strength to operate and are difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional manual wringing mechanism with a screw drive mechanism that converts linear reciprocating motion into rotational motion. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for users to apply significant force to wring the mop head, as the screw threads automatically generate the necessary rotational force during the pushing and pulling motions.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch assembly enables dynamic engagement and disengagement of the screw drive mechanism based on the direction of motion. When the user pushes or pulls the grip body, the clutch engages to activate the screw drive for water removal. When the user needs to change direction or adjust the mop, the clutch disengages to allow free movement. This dynamic control optimizes ease of operation by activating the mechanical advantage only when needed.
2Productivity
If spin mops with rotational mechanisms are used for water removal, then water can be removed more effectively, but the mechanisms are cumbersome and lack efficiency in debris separation
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch assembly is divided into two independent clutch members with distinct functions: the first clutch member engages with the screw drive mechanism for water removal, while the second clutch member engages with the debris separation mechanism. This segmentation allows each clutch member to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall productivity while keeping individual components simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The single clutch assembly serves multiple functions: it controls engagement of the screw drive mechanism for water removal, controls engagement of the debris separation mechanism, and allows disengagement of both when needed. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity by consolidating control into one assembly rather than requiring separate mechanisms for each function.
3Ease of operation
If a clutch assembly with helical teeth is used to translate linear motion to rotation, then the mop head can be easily spun for water removal, but the mechanism requires precise engagement and disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch members utilize composite structural design combining helical teeth with smooth portions. The helical teeth provide reliable engagement with the screw drive threads, while the smooth portions allow for easy disengagement and reduced friction during operation. This composite approach ensures both ease of spinning and reliable engagement by incorporating different surface characteristics in the same component.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user's linear reciprocating motion and the rotational motion required for water removal and debris separation. The helical teeth on the clutch members provide a controlled interface that reliably converts motion types while the spring mechanism ensures consistent engagement force, maintaining reliability during repeated use.
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 design improves ergonomics and efficiency by allowing users to easily spin the mop head for water removal and separate debris with reduced effort, enhancing user experience and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A helical tooth is formed on an external surface of the first clutch member. The helical tooth is configured to engage with the threaded panel threads to impart a rotational motion to the first clutch member when the first clutch member translates up or down inside the threaded panel assembly.
Implementation Method 2
a clutch disengagement spring is biasing the first clutch member away from the second clutch member when the grip body casing is pulled away from the clutch shaft.
Data Source
AI summary
A spin mop includes a grip body casing. The grip body casing is an elongated member and hollow with an inside surface. The inside surface has a threaded panel assembly. The threaded panel assembly is formed in an elongated shape and has threaded panel threads alternating with threaded panel fillets. A clutch shaft extends into the grip body casing. The clutch shaft is telescopically mounted to the grip body casing. A clutch assembly is formed on the clutch shaft. The clutch assembly extends into the grip body casing. The clutch assembly further includes a first clutch member and a second clutch member. The first clutch member is rotably mounted to the clutch shaft. The second clutch member is fixed to the clutch shaft. A helical tooth is formed on an external surface of the first clutch member.