Versatile cleaning devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cleaning devices are cumbersome due to the need for multiple specialized tools for various cleaning tasks and hard-to-reach locations, lacking versatility and efficient storage solutions.

Innovation Solution

A versatile cleaning device with a pivot assembly and interchangeable cleaning heads, allowing for adjustable angles and extension to accommodate different tasks and positions, along with a secure mechanism for easy head attachment and compact storage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple specialized cleaning devices are used for different cleaning tasks, then cleaning effectiveness for specific tasks is improved, but device complexity and storage burden increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning task coverageVSAvoidnumber of cleaning devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cleaning device employs interchangeable cleaning heads that can be attached to a common handle, allowing a single base device to perform multiple cleaning functions. The head attaching assembly enables users to swap between different cleaning heads (e.g., dusting head, polishing head, scrubbing head) depending on the specific cleaning task, thereby achieving versatility without requiring multiple separate devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The cleaning device is divided into modular components: a handle, a head attaching assembly, and interchangeable cleaning heads. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while enabling flexible reconfiguration. The handle provides structural support and housing for the power source, while the detachable heads can be selected based on cleaning requirements, reducing the need to store multiple complete cleaning devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Length of moving object

If extension arm is extended for greater reach, then cleaning range is improved, but device stability and control difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveextension arm lengthVSAvoiddevice control
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The extension arm incorporates a pivot assembly that allows dynamic adjustment of the angle between the handle and extension arm. This enables the user to change the configuration of the extension arm based on the specific cleaning task and reach requirements. The pivot assembly includes a gear lock mechanism with teeth engagement that provides stable locking at selected angles while allowing easy repositioning when needed, thus maintaining control and stability even when extended.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If pivot assembly allows rotational movement for position adjustment, then adaptability to different positions is improved, but locking reliability and structural complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition adjustment capabilityVSAvoidpivot assembly locking
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The pivot assembly uses a gear lock mechanism as an intermediary element to achieve reliable locking. The gear lock includes teeth that engage with corresponding teeth on the handle and extension arm, providing positive mechanical locking at selected positions. A biasing member continuously applies force to maintain tooth engagement, ensuring the pivot assembly remains securely locked during use while allowing controlled adjustment when the release button is pressed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Adaptability or versatility

If cleaning heads are made interchangeable for versatility, then cleaning task adaptability is improved, but attachment security and assembly complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning head interchangeabilityVSAvoidhead attaching assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The head attaching assembly is designed with standardized attachment interfaces on both the handle and cleaning heads, creating equipotential connection points. This allows any cleaning head to be attached to the handle using the same attachment mechanism, simplifying the user interface. The attachment feature includes complementary geometric shapes that guide proper alignment and provide secure mechanical connection, ensuring consistent attachment reliability across different head types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #12Equipotentiality

Data Source

PatentUS10575703B2Versatile cleaning devices
Publication Date: 2020.03.03 UNGER MARKETING INTERNATIONAL LLC
  • US10575703B2 patent drawing
  • US10575703B2 patent drawing
  • US10575703B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A versatile cleaning device is provided that can be easily configured for a number of different cleaning tasks and in a number of different positions. The device allows the user to change and/or replace to the cleaning head and/or the cleaning member carried by the head. The device allows the user to change a first angle between the handle and the extension arm via a pivot assembly. Further, the device allows the user to secure the handle to an extension device for greater reach and cleaning range. Accordingly, the cleaning device allows for even increased reach and cleaning range, as well as allowing the device to be folded for easy and compact storage/shipping.