Dance Pole End Assembly With Cam Lock for Static-Spinning Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dance exercise poles require a separate tool and are slow to switch between static and spinning modes, which can be inconvenient and potentially dangerous during use.
Innovation Solution
An end assembly with a movable element that allows quick switching between static and spinning modes without additional tools, using a cam mechanism to interlock engagement elements, ensuring secure locking and minimizing external protrusions for safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a tool such as an Allen or hex key is used to screw at least one screw inwards to engage with a flat surface on the pole, then the rotation of the dance exercise pole relative to the base is restricted, but the switching between static and spinning modes is slow and requires a separate tool which may be lost
Solution Approach 1:
The movable element functions as a self-service mechanism where the user directly manipulates the locking component without requiring external tools. By moving the element axially, the user simultaneously engages or disengages the locking feature, making the system serve itself rather than requiring separate tools for operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the tool requirement entirely from the system by integrating the locking mechanism directly into the pole structure. The movable element with its locking feature eliminates the need for external Allen keys or hex keys, removing the tool as a separate component from the operational sequence.
2Reliability
If a tool such as an Allen or hex key is used to screw at least one screw inwards to engage with a flat surface on the pole, then the rotation of the dance exercise pole relative to the base is restricted, but a separate tool is required which may be lost
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the pole structure itself. The movable element becomes an integral part of the pole assembly, combining the previously separate locking function with the main structural component. This integration reduces the total number of discrete parts and eliminates the need for external tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable element serves multiple functions: it acts as both a structural component of the pole and a locking mechanism. By making the element multi-functional, the invention eliminates the need for dedicated separate tools, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable locking capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If engagement elements are used to lock the dance exercise pole, then the pole can switch between static and spinning modes, but external protrusions may pose safety risks and reduce the uninterrupted pole surface
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement elements are nested within the pole structure rather than protruding externally. The movable element and its locking features are contained within the pole's cross-section, allowing mode switching functionality while eliminating external protrusions that could pose safety hazards or interrupt the pole surface.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having external protrusions that extend outward for locking, the invention inverts the approach by having internal engagement features. The locking mechanism works from the inside out, with engagement elements that recess into the pole structure rather than protrude from it, thereby eliminating safety hazards.
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 rapid and tool-free switching between static and spinning modes, reducing the risk of accidental changes during use and maximizing the uninterrupted pole surface for dancers, while maintaining compactness and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing element arranged to bias the movable element towards the first position
Implementation Method 2
using a cam mechanism to interlock engagement elements
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c
Figure 1d~1e
AI summary
An end assembly for a dance exercise pole. The end assembly comprises: an end part; and a connector configured for connection to a dance pole. A first engagement element (30,68) is connected to the connector; and there is a second engagement element (18,70) engageable with the first engagement element (30,68). A movable element (6,75) is movable between a first position and a second position to move at least one of the first engagement element (30,68) or the second engagement element (18,70) and thereby switch the end part respectively between: a first configuration with the first engagement element (30,68) disengaged from the second engagement element (18,70), with the connector capable of rotation relative to the end part; and a second configuration with the first engagement element (30,68) engaged with the second engagement element (18,70) to restrict the rotation relative to the end part.