Telescoping Drain Clearing Device with Sealed Plunger Head
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drain clearing devices do not effectively combine the functions of a plunger and a snaking device, often leading to water spillage and requiring a separate plumbing snake for stubborn clogs, lacking a sealed handle and convenient operation mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A dual tube arrangement with telescoping movement and a crank handle integrated with a snaking member, along with a plug to prevent water spillage, allowing for both plunging and snaking functions in a single device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a plunger and snaking device are combined in a single device, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a plunger device and a snaking device into a single integrated unit. The plunger head is coupled to one end of a first hollow tube, while the snaking member is positioned within the same tube. A plug selectively seals the inner area of the first hollow tube, allowing the device to function as either a plunger or a snaking device depending on whether the plug is inserted or removed. This merging approach provides versatility while managing complexity through a unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as a plunger when the plug is inserted to seal the tube, and as a snaking device when the plug is removed to allow the snaking member to extend and retract within the tube. The first hollow tube serves as both the plunger shaft and the housing for the snaking member, creating a multi-functional universal device that eliminates the need for separate plunger and snaking tools.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the snaking device is sealed within the handle of the plunger, then water spillage is eliminated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A plug acts as an intermediary sealing element that selectively seals the inner area of the first hollow tube. When inserted, the plug prevents water from leaking between the snaking device components and the plunger handle, eliminating water spillage. The plug can be easily inserted or removed to control the sealing function, providing a simple yet effective solution to prevent water damage without requiring complex sealing mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If a two-part extended handle configuration is provided, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle of the device is divided into two separate parts: a first handle portion and a second handle portion. The second handle portion is coupled to the second end of the first hollow tube, while the first handle portion is coupled to the first end of the first hollow tube. This segmentation allows the handle to be extended for better reach and operation, while the two parts can be separately manufactured and assembled, managing complexity through modular design.
4Ease of operation
If a crank handle is provided for operation of the snaking device, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The crank handle is coupled to the second end of the first hollow tube and is integrated into the existing structure of the device. The crank handle utilizes the rotational motion of the user's hand to directly drive the snaking member, providing an intuitive and easy-to-operate mechanism. The crank handle is designed to work seamlessly with the snaking device components, allowing users to easily extend and retract the snaking member without requiring additional complex drive mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A drain clearing device includes a first hollow tube having opposed first and second ends and a plunger head coupled to the first end. A second hollow tube includes a first end operatively coupled to the first end of the first tube, the first and second tubes being configured for telescoping movement between extended and retracted configurations. A snaking member is situated in the first and second tubes for movement between storing and operating configurations when the tubes are moved between extended and retracted configurations, respectively. A crank handle connected to the snaking member enables a user to rotate and extend the snake as needed. A plug is included for separating an inner tube area from an inner area of the plunger head and to prevent water spillage from the tubes.