Handle for a container, hand-tool or other like item
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pot handles pose challenges during storage as they either require time-consuming disassembly or are prone to inadvertent collapse, which can lead to safety issues during use.
Innovation Solution
A handle design featuring a mount with a locking recess, a pivot arm, and a locking arm that is biased to secure the handle in place during use and can be rotated for storage, utilizing a latch and cam abutment mechanism to prevent accidental collapse, and a lid with a retaining projection to secure the handle in the storage position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the handle is made removable to facilitate storage, then storage ease is improved, but the time required for disassembly and reassembly increases and the risk of loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed with a pivot arm that allows it to rotate between an operating position (extending from the container) and a storage position (folded over the top of the container). This dynamic positioning capability enables the handle to adapt between providing leverage during use and minimizing storage space, eliminating the need for complete disassembly while facilitating compact storage.
2Volume of moving object
If the handle is made collapsible to reduce storage size, then storage space is improved, but the risk of inadvertent collapse during use increases
Solution Approach 1:
A locking mechanism is provided that can be engaged before use to secure the pivot arm in its extended operating position. This preliminary locking action prevents inadvertent collapse during use while allowing the handle to be easily collapsed into the storage position when the lock is disengaged, thus resolving the contradiction between storage compactness and use stability.
3Reliability
If the handle is locked in place during normal use to prevent collapse, then stability is improved, but the ease of collapsing for storage decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be easily operable by the user, allowing quick engagement and disengagement. The mechanism includes a latch that can be manually released and a spring-loaded component that automatically returns the handle to the locked position when engaged, reducing the effort required for both locking and unlocking operations.
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 handle securely locks in place during use while allowing easy conversion to a storage position, reducing the risk of accidental collapse and enhancing safety, while also minimizing the pot's size for storage.
Implementation Method 1
the latch operable to bias the locking arm towards the locking recess. The latch preferably has a resilient arm and the locking arm has a cam abutment, the resilient arm operable to bias the locking arm through its contact with the cam abutment.
Implementation Method 2
the mount may have a flat spring attached thereto, the flat spring biased towards a position where it obstructs removal of the locking arm from the at least one opening.
Data Source
AI summary
A handle for a container, the container including a peripheral wall that defines an internal area. The handle includes a mount having a locking recess and a body including a pivot arm and a locking arm. The pivot arm is pivotally connected to the mount. When positioned in an operating position, the locking arm is biased toward the locking recess so as to secure the locking arm in place relative to the mount. When positioned in a storage position, the body is rotated about the pivot arm to a location above or in the internal area.