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IMAGES 4- Rake Components
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The tines can be made from thermoplastic or metallic materials as along as they have the proper physical properties of moment-of-inertia of the cross-section and modulus of elasticity. A circular cross-section provides the ideal characteristic of radial symmetry, allowing ease of raking in all directions without any noticeable increase in raking resistance. The typical tine of a conventional metal rake has a rectagular cross-section and this severely limits the capability of raking in any direction other than straight-ahead.
The shape of the tines facilitates injection molding the tines in mass quantities. Every tine is identical. In addition, replaceability of tines provides an aftermarket for spare tines.
The number of tines shown is 32. The number of tines depends on the width of the cross-arm, and the tine spacing. Cross-arm width can be varied to market different capacity rakes.
The rake can be disassembled. Each component is capable of being replaced. It is highly unlikely that the cross-arm would ever require replacement. In a rare instance a handle might require replacment if it is subjected to abusive and intense use.
The compact configuration of the disassembled rake suggests the possibility of shipping the rake in a circular tube, or long rectangular box. It is entirely feasible to produce the handle in two pieces in order to further reduce the physical size and shipping costs.
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