Foldable trekking poles with integrated fold-lock system and one-piece push-button locking mechanism

Abstract

Folding walking stick with five segments, characterized in that the segments are connected by an internal nylon pull rope sheathed in a plastic channel, which is locked via a one-piece push-button mechanism.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to foldable walking sticks, in particular trekking and hiking sticks, which can be securely and easily locked by means of an innovative locking system. The system prevents the segments from unintentionally sliding into each other and from defects caused by jamming of the mechanism. State of the art

[0002] Popular folding trekking poles use various mechanisms, such as pull cords with snap fasteners or twist locks, to secure the individual segments. However, these solutions have several disadvantages: • Jamming of push buttons or their incomplete engagement, which impairs safety. • Unintentional interlocking of the segments due to insufficient fixation. • Complex mechanics that are susceptible to dirt, moisture, and mechanical defects. • Additional maintenance effort due to difficult-to-access individual parts. Object of the invention

[0003] The object of the invention is to provide foldable walking sticks that: • Easy and reliable locking mechanism, preventing segments from unintentionally slipping. • Have a robust, one-piece push-button locking mechanism that does not jam. • A fold-lock system makes folding and unfolding particularly quick and safe. • They are low-maintenance and durable, even under adverse conditions. Solution to Task I. Segment structure (5 segments)

[0004] The folding walking stick is divided into five functional segments, which retract into each other: 1. Handle Segment: a. Ergonomic cork handle with EVA foam extension (for variable grip) b. Wrist strap with safety release c. Clamping screw for precise length adjustment 2. Individual Segment (Length Adjustment): a. Allows the stick length to be adjusted to the user's height by axially shifting the grip segment, which sits on the Individual Segment. b. Additional clamping (clamping fastener and screw) for secondary securing against slippage 3. Push button segment: a. A one-piece push-button mechanism is positioned inside the tube and locks the segments after folding. b. The push button is pushed radially outwards by tension and visibly and audibly clicks into a recess, preventing the segments from sliding axially into one another. 4th & 5th pipe segments with stick tip: a. Connect the snap fastener segment to the tip b. The last segment accommodates accessories (plates, rubber buffers, snow plates, etc.) to increase the service life of the tip. II. Fold-Lock System 1. The Fold-Lock system allows for particularly quick and easy folding and unfolding of the trekking poles. 2. The segments are connected by an internal high-strength nylon pull rope with a plastic channel. 3. Once the segments are fully unfolded, the push button automatically pops out and locks securely. 4. The mechanism prevents the push button from becoming blocked or jammed. III. Internal pull rope 1. The high-strength nylon pull cord runs centrally through the push button, thus preventing jamming. 2. It is encased in a plastic channel that reduces friction and wear and distributes the tension evenly. 3. The system ensures that the segments do not slide into each other, even under high loads. Advantages of the invention

[0005] The invention described here offers the following advantages over conventional solutions: • Maximum safety: No unwanted sliding of the segments into each other. • Defect-proof: The one-piece push-button mechanism prevents jamming. • Quick operation: Fold-Lock system enables intuitive opening and closing. • Durable: Nylon pull rope with plastic channel minimizes wear • Outdoor-optimized: Mechanism is robust against dirt, ice and moisture List of designations 1 Handle Segment 2 Individual Segment (length adjustment): 3 Push Button Segment 4 fixing pins 5, 6 pipe segments with stick tip 7 Locking push button Drawings

[0006] The following drawings are attached to illustrate the invention: Fig. 1 Top view of the folding walking stick showing the position of the push button system Fig. 2 push-button locking mechanisms Summary

[0007] The invention describes foldable trekking poles with an innovative Fold-Lock system, which is particularly secure and durable due to a one-piece push-button locking system and an internal nylon pull cord with a plastic channel. The system prevents unintentional sliding, jamming of the push button, and mechanical defects.

Claims

[1] Folding walking stick with five segments, characterized by that the segments are connected by an internal nylon pull rope sheathed in a plastic channel, which is locked via a one-piece push-button mechanism. [2] Folding walking stick according to claim 1, characterized by , that the push button mechanism (Pos. 3) is positioned centrally inside the third segment (Pos. 4) and springs outwards and locks into place when the segments are fully unfolded. [3] Folding walking stick according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the first segment (Pos. 1) has a knurled adjusting screw for length and clamping force adjustment and secondary locking against slipping and shifting into each other in the axial direction to segment 2 (Pos. 2). [4] Folding walking stick according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized byThe first segment (Pos. 1) includes an ergonomic cork handle with an EVA foam extension, a hand strap with a safety release, and a clamping screw for length adjustment. This screw provides axial securing, prevents slippage, and fastens segments 1 (Pos. 1) and 2 (Pos. 2) together through radial forces. [5] Folding walking stick according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the Fold-Lock system makes folding and unfolding the segments (Pos.4, Pos.5 and Pos. 6) particularly safe and quick by means of an audible and visible locking of the push button mechanism (Pos. 3).

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