Collapsible Extension Pole With Spring Clips Against Member Separation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extension poles face issues with pole member separation under secure extension pressure, particularly due to the failure of connector clips, and are costly due to threaded connectors, and are cumbersome for shipping and display due to one-piece construction.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible extension pole design featuring an elongated hollow tubular inner handle with a reduced diameter portion and slots, secured by spring clips that register with slots on extension pole members, preventing accidental disconnection and allowing for easy assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If connector clips are used to secure pole members, then assembly is simplified and cost is reduced, but the connection reliability deteriorates under secure extension pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The connector clip is segmented into multiple functional elements: a U-shaped body with resilient arms, a retaining arm, and a positioning feature. This segmentation allows each element to perform a specific function - the resilient arms provide flexible engagement, the retaining arm prevents disconnection, and the positioning feature ensures proper alignment - collectively achieving both ease of assembly and reliable connection under pressure
Solution Approach 2:
The connector clip utilizes dynamic elasticity through its resilient arms that can flex and deform. When pole members are inserted, the resilient arms deform to accommodate the connection, then spring back to maintain constant securing pressure. This dynamic behavior allows the connector to adapt to manufacturing tolerances while maintaining reliable connection under varying loads
2Reliability
If threaded connectors are used to secure pole members, then connection reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector clip is designed as a simple, inexpensive component made from basic materials that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. Rather than using expensive threaded connectors requiring precision machining, the clip uses simple forming processes and elastic materials to achieve reliable connection at lower cost
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the traditional threaded mechanical fastening system with an elastic retention system. Instead of relying on threads and torque, the connector uses elastic deformation and spring force to secure pole members, eliminating the need for complex threading operations and reducing manufacturing complexity and cost
3Strength
If one-piece construction is used for extension pole, then structural integrity is improved, but shipping and display become cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The extension pole is divided into multiple telescoping pole members that can be nested within each other when collapsed. This segmentation enables compact storage and easy shipping while maintaining structural integrity during use through the secure connector clips that join the segments under load
Solution Approach 2:
The pole members are designed to telescope, with smaller diameter members nested within larger diameter members. When collapsed for shipping or storage, the entire assembly reduces to a compact size. When extended for use, the members form a rigid structure secured by connector clips, providing both convenience and structural integrity
4Ease of operation
If connector clips are used to secure pole members, then ease of assembly is improved, but resistance to separation under load deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning feature of the connector clip includes a curved surface that engages with a corresponding feature on the pole member. This curved geometry provides mechanical advantage, creating a wedge-like effect that resists separation forces while allowing easy insertion. The curvature distributes loads and prevents the connector from disengaging under lateral or axial separation forces
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 design ensures secure connection of pole members without accidental disconnection, reduces costs by eliminating the need for threaded connectors, and facilitates compact storage and display.
Implementation Method 1
a spring clip which is positioned in the reduced diameter portion of the handle member so that the spring clip has a portion thereof extending through the registering slots
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible extension pole comprised of extension pole members which are connected together in an end-to-end manner. The extension pole of this invention includes the use of spring clips to ensure that the extension pole members will not disconnect from one another during the use thereof.