Swivel Rake Coupling for Quick Debris Scooping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing yard tools, such as rakes, lack a device that allows for temporary coupling and uncoupling, enabling them to be used individually or combined for enhanced functionality, such as grabbing and scooping debris, without increasing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A swivel coupling device with clamp assemblies and a swivelable knuckle joint that enables rapid connection and disconnection of two yard tools, allowing them to be oriented in various positions relative to each other for efficient debris collection and manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If yard tools are used individually, then each tool can be used for its specific function, but bending is required and productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate yard tools (such as rakes) into a single coupled assembly that can be used together. The coupling device allows the handles of two tools to be connected, enabling the user to operate both tools simultaneously with one hand, thereby reducing bending effort and increasing productivity by collecting more debris in a single pass.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple yard tools are carried, then enhanced functionality is available, but carrying burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent allows users to couple two yard tools together to form a single functional unit, providing enhanced functionality (such as grabbing and scooping debris) while only carrying one coupled assembly instead of multiple separate tools, thereby reducing the carrying burden.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a coupling device is added, then tools can be combined for enhanced functionality, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coupling device as an intermediary component that connects two yard tools. This mediator device provides the combination capability while keeping the overall system relatively simple by using a straightforward mechanical connection mechanism that does not significantly complicate the individual tools themselves.
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 allows users to efficiently pick up and move debris with reduced bending effort, enabling enhanced productivity by allowing tools to be used individually or combined as needed, while maintaining simplicity and reducing the need to carry multiple tools.
Implementation Method 1
a swivelable knuckle joint rotatably connecting the first clamp assembly to the second clamp assembly, wherein the knuckle joint has a first segment connected to the first clamp assembly and second segment connected to the second clamp assembly
Implementation Method 2
The clamp assemblies each comprise a tubular sleeve adapted to have a handle on the first rake extend therethrough along a longitudinal axis and a clamp that operatively fixes the tubular sleeve such that the handle can be rotated on the longitudinal axis
Data Source
AI summary
A swivel coupling device for rakes or other yard tools having handles that allows two of the implements to be quickly and easily connected for use of the combination to scoop, rake or the like various materials, and disconnected just as easily thereafter. The device includes a pair of clamp assemblies including tubular sleeves rotatably connected by a swivelable knuckle or in other words a swivel joint.