Adjustable Pole Locking Handle With Friction Brake Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning and maintenance devices with poles or handles often require length adjustment to accommodate different users or tasks, but cutting the pole is not practical for multi-user scenarios or task-specific needs.
Innovation Solution
A height adjustment lock system comprising a braking cylinder with a brake shoe retainer and a locking handle that frictionally retains the pole sections, allowing for easy adjustment and secure locking of the pole length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the pole is cut to the desired length, then the pole length is fixed and simple, but it cannot accommodate different users or task-specific length requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The pole is divided into multiple sections that can be independently adjusted. The braking cylinder mechanism allows selective engagement of different pole sections to achieve various lengths, enabling the pole to adapt to different users and tasks while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The pole transitions from a static fixed length to a dynamic adjustable length. The braking cylinder with movable brake shoe creates a dynamic locking mechanism that allows the pole sections to be easily repositioned and secured at different lengths, providing versatility without excessive complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If a locking mechanism is added to allow pole adjustment, then pole length adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to complex locking procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The brake shoe is spring-loaded to automatically engage with the pole section when the locking handle is released. This self-servicing mechanism eliminates the need for manual tightening or complex locking procedures - the user simply moves the handle to engage or disengage the brake, and the spring automatically maintains the locked position, greatly simplifying operation
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional multi-component mechanical locking system (screws, clips, or complex latches) is replaced with a simple brake mechanism. The brake shoe presses against the pole section using friction, controlled by a single movable handle, replacing what would otherwise require multiple fastening components and steps
3Ease of operation
If a friction-based brake mechanism is used, then ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of the lock deteriorates due to potential slippage
Solution Approach 1:
The brake shoe is made from a composite material or features a composite structure combining a rigid body with a friction-enhancing surface. This allows the brake shoe to maintain structural integrity while providing high friction contact with the pole section, ensuring reliable locking without slippage while keeping the mechanism simple to operate
Solution Approach 2:
The brake shoe features a curved or contoured friction surface that conforms to the cylindrical shape of the pole section. This curved contact surface increases the contact area and distributes the locking force more evenly, preventing slippage while maintaining ease of operation through the simple handle mechanism
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
Enables easy and secure adjustment of the pole length to fit various user sizes and task requirements, providing a practical solution for devices like brooms, mops, and tools without the need for frequent cutting.
Implementation Method 1
the brake shoe having a shape conformal to a surface of the lower pole section and a frictional surface capable of engaging with and retaining the lower pole section
Implementation Method 2
the locking handle comprises a brake shoe pusher capable of applying force to the brake shoe when the locking handle is moved
Data Source
AI summary
A height adjustment lock system is disclosed. The system allows one to easily adjust the length of a pole or a handle. Such adjustment is useful with cleaning and maintenance devices as well as with tools and other implements. The height adjustment lock system has a locking handle that is movably attached to a braking cylinder. A multi section pole or handle is engaged with the braking cylinder. Movement of the locking handle causes the braking cylinder to frictionally retain the sections in a selected position, and further movement of the locking handle in an opposing direction causes the braking cylinder to release the sections for further height or length adjustment.