Extending Pole Clamp with Dual Locking for Reliable Adjustment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current clamps for securing extending poles are difficult to operate, often requiring confusing or single-method locking mechanisms, leading to unreliable locking and user frustration.
Innovation Solution
An extending pole clamping device with two complementary locking mechanisms: a clamping lever and a push button with an engagement pin, allowing intuitive and reliable securing and adjustment of the inner pole within the outer pole.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single locking mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the locking reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two independent but complementary parts: a cam/lever style clamp (first locking mechanism) and a button lock (second locking mechanism). Each mechanism performs a specific locking function, and together they provide redundant security without requiring a completely new complex system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines two different locking mechanisms (cam/lever and button lock) into a single integrated clamping device. The cam mechanism provides primary clamping force while the button lock provides secondary security, creating a unified system that leverages the strengths of both approaches.
2Reliability
If multiple locking mechanisms are combined, then the locking reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring the user to manually operate both locking mechanisms separately, the design inverts the control logic: the first mechanism (cam clamp) automatically engages and secures the pole, while the second mechanism (button lock) serves as a simple fail-safe that only needs to be pressed if the first mechanism fails to engage properly.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam/lever style first locking mechanism is designed to automatically clamp and lock the pole in place through its mechanical advantage, requiring minimal user intervention. The system essentially locks itself, with the button lock serving as a simple backup rather than a primary operation step.
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 device simplifies operation and enhances locking reliability by providing clear, two-step actions for securing and adjusting the pole length, ensuring secure engagement and preventing accidental unlocking.
Implementation Method 1
the second body 320 comprises dual ramps 321 and 322 at a front side thereof; and a clamping lever 330 rotatably connected at a base 331 thereof to the dual ramps 321 and 322
Implementation Method 2
the push button 312 is linked to an engagement pin 314 that penetrates the outer pole 100 and inserts into an engagement hole 201 on the inner pole 200
Implementation Method 3
When the clamping lever 330 is closed, the base 331 of the clamping lever 330 engages with the dual ramps 321 and 322 of the second body 320 to exert clamping force on the inner pole 200
Data Source
AI summary
An extending pole clamping device comprises a main body mounted on one end of an outer pole that receives insertion of an inner pole, a second body surrounding the inner pole and connected to the main body at the back portion, and a clamping lever rotatably connected at a base thereof to dual ramps at a front side of the second body. The extending pole clamping device further comprises a push button at a front side of the main body, wherein the push button is linked to an engagement pin that penetrates the outer pole and inserts into an engagement hole on the inner pole. The extending pole clamping device is unlocked by firstly opening the clamping lever and secondly depressing the push button to allow adjustment of the length of the inner pole, and locked by firstly releasing the push button and secondly closing the clamping lever.