Wearable Grout Float With Finger-Controlled Segmented Sections

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current grout application tools lack flexibility, leading to increased time and health issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome due to limited movements.

Innovation Solution

A wearable grout float with independently movable sections controlled by separate fingers, allowing for diverse grouting strokes and movements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional grout float is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the flexibility and range of movements are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveflexibilityVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The grout float is divided into multiple independently movable sections (first section and second section) that can move relative to each other, allowing different finger sets to control different sections for enhanced flexibility and grouting stroke variety

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The grout float incorporates dynamic elements that allow sections to move independently relative to one another, transforming a static tool into a dynamic one that adapts to different grouting requirements through multi-directional movement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If a traditional grout float with limited movements is used, then the device complexity is low, but the productivity and time efficiency are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegrouting efficiencyVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the grout float into multiple controllable sections, the tool enables more efficient grouting operations through varied stroke patterns, reducing the time required to complete grouting jobs while increasing overall productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If a traditional grout float is used, then the device is simple, but it causes health issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveergonomicsVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Dividing control of the grout float into separate sections for different finger sets distributes the physical workload more evenly across the hand, reducing strain on specific areas and minimizing the risk of repetitive stress injuries

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The dynamic, multi-sectional design allows for more natural hand movements and varied grouting strokes, reducing repetitive motion patterns that lead to carpal tunnel syndrome and other health issues

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20260071447A1Wearable grout float
Publication Date: 2026.03.12 VANDERVAART ADAM
  • US20260071447A1 patent drawing
  • US20260071447A1 patent drawing
  • US20260071447A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A grout float having at least two sections controlled by the fingers of a user. The two sections are connected to a wearable portion, preferably a glove. The two sections are independently controlled by two sets of fingers of the user. Compared to the prior art, the grout float allows greater versatility of the user to manipulate grout and the finishing of the grout on a surface.