Vibrating Concrete Edge Float for Standing Grade Finishing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing concrete leveling methods require manual labor to form and level wet concrete edges, leading to back pain, discomfort, and fatigue, and lack a device that efficiently levels and smooths edges using vibration.
Innovation Solution
A power tool with a vibrating blade that floats wet concrete edges to grade, allowing for ergonomic operation while standing, and simultaneously levels and smooths the surface, reducing the need for manual labor and improving durability and appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual troweling and leveling methods are used, then laborers can level concrete edges, but it causes back pain, discomfort, and fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical troweling actions with a powered vibration device. The vibrating blade performs the leveling and smoothing function that previously required manual labor, eliminating the need for laborers to bend over or squat during the process.
Solution Approach 2:
The core mechanism of the invention is a vibrating blade that vibrates at high frequency to level and smooth concrete edges. The vibration causes aggregate to drop below the remaining mixture, automatically achieving the leveling effect without manual intervention.
2Reliability
If large vibrating tools are used, then vibration can be applied to concrete, but they are difficult to maneuver around wet concrete edges
Solution Approach 1:
The vibrating element is segmented into a long, thin blade configuration rather than a single large mass. This segmentation allows the blade to be maneuvered around edges and contours while still providing effective vibration for leveling.
Solution Approach 2:
The blade is made rotatably movable to different positions around a pivot point, allowing dynamic adjustment to adapt to various edge configurations. This mobility enables the tool to be easily maneuvered around wet concrete edges while maintaining vibration effectiveness.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual edge leveling is performed, then edges can be leveled to grade, but it requires laborers to bend over or squat
Solution Approach 1:
The device substitutes manual bending and squatting motions with a standing operator controlling a powered tool. The vibration mechanism automatically performs the precision leveling function that previously required close physical contact and bent posture.
4Reliability
If conventional vibrating tools are used, then vibration can be applied to concrete, but they lack a blade or platform sized to work edges efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The blade is designed with rotational capability around a pivot point, allowing it to be positioned at various angles and orientations. This dynamic positioning enables the same tool to adapt to different edge configurations, contours, and access requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The vibrating blade is designed with specific dimensional characteristics (length, width, thickness) optimized for edge work. The local geometry of the blade matches the requirements of concrete edges, providing efficient vibration transmission and leveling performance.
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 enhances concrete quality and accuracy by reducing imperfections and fatigue, providing a durable, smooth surface without manual bending or squatting, and is adaptable to various edge configurations.
Implementation Method 1
The invention is directed to a device for floating wet concrete edges to grade. Specifically, the invention is a power tool that floats wet concrete edges to grade using a vibrating blade.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for floating wet concrete edges to grade. The device comprises a blade component configured to vibrate as it is moved along the top surface of wet concrete edges such as those created by forms, structures, or features such as walls, pipes, columns, conduits, and drains.