Cam-Based Quick Connector Assembly for Extension Poles
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extension poles used for outdoor tasks often have cumbersome and insecure connections for tools, which become loose with extended use or torsion, limiting their versatility for different maintenance chores.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly featuring a telescopic utility pole with a cam member that rotates to lock and unlock implements, providing secure fixation and easy operation by misaligning apertures to prevent axial movement, allowing for quick connection and disconnection of various tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded connections are used for attaching tools to extension poles, then the connection can be securely fastened, but the connection becomes cumbersome to operate and loosens with extended use or torsion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional threaded mechanical connection system with a cam-based locking mechanism. The cam member rotates within the connector body to engage with the tool's shaft, using cam action rather than threading to create a secure, non-rotating connection that is both reliable and easy to operate with a single rotational motion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a connector allows connection of different types of brushes and rollers, then versatility is improved, but the connection mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple types of tools (brushes, rollers, and other implements) through a single standardized connection mechanism. The cam-based locking system and aperture design allow various tool shafts to be secured without requiring different connector types, simplifying the overall system while maintaining versatility.
3Reliability
If permanent affixation of tools to pole ends is used, then secure connection is achieved, but the pole cannot be used for other maintenance chores
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a static permanent affixation to a dynamic removable connection. The cam member can be rotated to lock the tool securely in place during use, and then rotated again to unlock and remove the tool, allowing the pole to be quickly reconfigured for different maintenance tasks while maintaining secure fixation during operation.
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 connector assembly ensures secure and easy attachment of tools to the pole, preventing loosening due to torsion or extended use, thus enhancing versatility and user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a cam member (210) telescoped over the distal end of the lower shaft member (200), the cam member (210) configured to rotate about a central axis (604)
Implementation Method 2
locking the implement into the connector such that the both rotational movement of the implement, and movement parallel to the long axis, is restrained
Data Source
AI summary
Quick connector assembly. At least some of the illustrative embodiments involve coupling an implement that has a stem member to the distal end of a pole that defines a long axis. The coupling comprising: inserting the stem member that defines a cross-sectional shape into an exposed aperture of a connector where the exposed aperture defines a cross-sectional shape that corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the stem member; and then locking the implement into the connector such that the both rotational movement of the implement, and movement parallel to the long axis, is restrained, the locking by turning a cam member associated with the connector less than a full rotation.