Collapsible Rod Joint with Push-Button Locking and Elastomeric Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible structures face challenges in forming a rigid joint that is strong enough to support weight but can easily collapse and fold for storage, particularly in applications like tents, walking aids, and collapsible frameworks, where ease of assembly and disassembly is crucial.
Innovation Solution
The use of an apparatus with elastomeric connectors and spring-loaded push-button locking mechanisms allows rod segments to connect and disconnect easily, providing a secure yet collapsible structure by using mated ferrules and slider arms that rotate into a collapsed state for storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid joints are used to support weight, then structural strength is improved, but ease of collapse and folding deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The joint incorporates a spring-loaded locking mechanism that dynamically transitions between locked (rigid) and unlocked (collapsible) states. The spring provides automatic engagement for strength during use, and easy disengagement for collapse when activated, resolving the contradiction between rigid support and ease of folding.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint's mechanical properties are changed by altering the state of the locking mechanism. When locked, the joint provides rigid support with high strength; when unlocked, it allows collapse with reduced resistance. This parameter change enables the joint to adapt between strength and collapsibility as needed.
2Ease of operation
If collapsible joints are used for easy storage, then ease of operation is improved, but structural strength deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The joint uses a dynamic locking system that transitions from easy-to-assemble unlocked state to rigid locked state. The spring-loaded mechanism automatically engages to provide rigidity after assembly, ensuring both ease of operation during assembly and structural strength during use.
3Ease of operation
If simple connection mechanisms are used, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded locking mechanism provides reliable automatic engagement when assembled, ensuring the joint remains securely connected during use. The same mechanism allows easy disassembly when needed by simply activating the release, maintaining both reliability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded mechanism automatically engages the locking components when the joint is assembled, providing self-securing without requiring additional fastening steps. This self-service feature ensures reliable connection while keeping the assembly process simple and easy to perform.
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
This solution enables the formation of a strong and rigid joint that supports weight while allowing for easy assembly and disassembly, enhancing the portability and storage of collapsible structures like tents and walking aids.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric connector adapted to connect the first assembly and the second assembly, while allowing the first assembly and the second assembly a limited range of motion relative to each other
Implementation Method 2
spring-loaded push-button locking mechanisms allows rod segments to connect and disconnect easily
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible structure connection system including apparatus for connecting rod segments and apparatus for holding and organizing rod segments. An apparatus for connecting rod segments, such as a pole tip and final rod segment, or two rod segments, may have a pair of mated rod segments and a spring-loaded push-button locking mechanism, with the rod segments connected using an elastomeric connector attached to each rod segment at adjacent, opposing ends. The elastomeric connector may be attached to and held in place against the rod segment using an attachment assembly that may be threaded or unthreaded, and that may mate, or not mate, within the rod segment upon securing the attachment assembly to the rod segment. The spring-loaded push-button locking mechanism may have a spring-loaded push-button seated on a dowel of a male body, and a cavity aperture traversing a dowel cavity of a female body.