Articulated Handle with Nested Segments for Compact Tool Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible handles for tools, such as snow-removal devices, are cumbersome to store and require significant manipulative effort to fold and unfold, with locking mechanisms prone to premature wear and potential loss of segments, which can render tools useless.
Innovation Solution
An articulated handle design featuring elongated hollow outer segments interconnected by hinge joints and inner segments with self-interlocking end members, allowing for easy folding and unfolding with minimal effort, and a linkage assembly that enables the handle to be securely attached to a head assembly with a single latching mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If collapsible handles have segments that can be completely detached from one another, then the compactness of the handle when transported or stored is improved, but the risk of parts being misplaced or lost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle segments are designed to nest within one another when collapsed, with each segment containing the next smaller segment inside it. This nesting arrangement achieves compact storage while keeping all segments connected as an integrated unit, eliminating the risk of segments being misplaced or lost during transportation or storage.
2Stability of the object's composition
If collapsible handles have segments that are pivotally attached by joints requiring locking mechanisms, then the handle can be maintained in stretched configuration, but the manipulative effort and time required to lock each joint increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking functions are merged into a single centralized locking mechanism. Instead of requiring separate locking operations for each joint, the invention uses one locking action that simultaneously secures all handle segments in their stretched configuration, dramatically reducing manipulative effort and time required.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and secure the handle segments when the handle is extended, without requiring manual intervention for each joint. The system serves itself by utilizing the natural extension motion to trigger the locking action, minimizing user effort.
3Stability of the object's composition
If collapsible handles use locking mechanisms to hold segments in position, then the handle can maintain stretched configuration, but the locking mechanisms are prone to premature wear and failure under heavy loads
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed with built-in protective features that cushion against heavy loads and premature wear. The mechanism includes load-distributing elements and wear-resistant components that are pre-engineered to handle heavy loads, preventing failure before it occurs.
4Ease of operation
If snow-removal devices have elongated handles to reach surfaces on vehicles, then the usability of the device is improved, but the difficulty of storing the device conveniently increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elongated handle is divided into multiple detachable segments that can be separated and stored in a compact arrangement. When not in use, the segments can be disconnected and stored in a small space, eliminating the storage problem of long handles while maintaining full length availability when needed for vehicle surface access.
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 design allows for compact storage and easy deployment of tools, reduces the risk of parts being misplaced or lost, and minimizes stress on hinge joints, enhancing durability and user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
the inner segments having complementary end members that are self-interlocking in a linear force-transmitting engagement when the handle is in the stretched configuration
Implementation Method 2
a sleeve member in sliding engagement with the proximal outer segment, the proximal outer segment being axially movable, with reference to the sleeve member, between at least a retracted position and an extended position
Implementation Method 3
an intervening hinge joint pivotally interconnecting the outer segments in juxtaposition, the outer segments being in alignment along a longitudinal axis when the handle is in the stretched configuration, and being folded back on one another when the handle is in the collapsed configuration
Data Source
AI summary
The tool has a folded position and an unfolded position. It will generally include a head assembly and an articulated handle. The handle can also be used alone. The handle, or the tool with such handle, occupies only a very compact space once in a fully folded position. It may thus be easily carried and stored when not in use. It can be folded and unfolded with only a minimal manipulative effort and level of difficulty. The main constituent parts cannot become detached and this unitary design alleviates the risks of parts being misplaced or lost.