Tool assembly comprising universal handle and interchangeable tool heads
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing floor care tools are costly, require frequent replacement, and create storage and inventory management challenges due to their specificity and fragility, especially when used with liquid products, which can lead to messy and hazardous application processes.
Innovation Solution
A universal tool handle system with modular components, including a tool head with A-frame shape and interchangeable inserts, that can be attached to various tool members for multiple cleaning operations, reducing the number of tools needed and enhancing durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specific floor care tools are used for different cleaning tasks, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but storage space requirements increase and inventory management becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal handle system that can be attached to multiple different tool heads (sweeping, dusting, mopping, polishing), allowing a single handle to perform various cleaning functions. This eliminates the need for separate handles for each cleaning task, reducing storage space while maintaining cleaning effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning system is divided into separate modular components: a universal handle and interchangeable tool heads. Each tool head can be independently attached or detached, allowing users to store only the handle and swap tool heads as needed, significantly reducing the storage footprint compared to storing complete separate tools.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional floor care tools are used, then specific cleaning functions are achieved, but tool durability decreases and replacement frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the durable universal handle from the consumable tool heads, the system protects the investment in the handle while allowing easy replacement of worn tool heads. The handle's robust construction is preserved, while tool heads can be swapped when worn, maintaining overall system reliability.
3Productivity
If liquid cleaning products are applied before tool use, then cleaning performance is improved, but mess and hazards increase during application
Solution Approach 1:
The tool heads are designed with integrated liquid product reservoirs that hold cleaning solutions until needed. This preliminary containment allows the cleaning product to be applied directly to the tool head rather than poured onto the floor, eliminating the mess and hazards of liquid application while maintaining cleaning performance.
4Ease of operation
If multiple complete floor care tools are maintained for different tasks, then task readiness is improved, but cost increases due to frequent replacement
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal handle can perform multiple cleaning tasks by attaching different tool heads, eliminating the need to purchase and maintain multiple complete tools. This reduces the total cost of tool acquisition and replacement while maintaining readiness for various cleaning tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows users to discard worn tool heads and retain the universal handle for continued use. This recovery of the durable handle component significantly reduces replacement costs compared to discarding entire tools when one component wears out.
Data Source
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AI summary
A tool assembly includes an elongated handle and a locking system for attaching a tool head to the handle. The tool head can be a floor care tool or other accessory that can be attached to the handle such that the elongated length of the handle can aid in the use of the tool attached. The locking system includes a keyed locking collar for engaging at least a first portion of the tool head, and a locking cap rotatably positioned on the handle for engaging a second portion of the tool head. The handle can be extendable, such as by telescoping, and can also be overmolded.