Flag Pole Securing Device with Perpendicular Locking Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for securing flags to flag poles are time-consuming to replace and risk parts falling off due to impacts, such as from lawn mowers, especially when multiple flags need frequent replacement.
Innovation Solution
A device with a locking mechanism featuring a first and second connecting member, where the first locking member is moved between releasing and locking positions perpendicular to the flag pole, using a biasing means like a compression spring, allowing easy flag replacement with minimal effort and secure attachment, utilizing a pin-like projection and recess for interlocking, and optionally including a light reflector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is used to secure the flag to the flag pole, then the reliability of attachment is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate components: a first locking member integrated with the first connecting member, and a second locking member integrated with the second connecting member. This segmentation allows each locking member to be independently designed and positioned, providing reliable interlocking while maintaining modular simplicity in the overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking members are merged with their respective connecting members as integrated components. The first locking member is formed as part of the first connecting member, and the second locking member is formed as part of the second connecting member. This merging eliminates separate locking components, reducing device complexity while ensuring reliable attachment through the integrated locking features.
2Ease of operation
If the first locking member is moved in a direction perpendicular to the flag pole, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the locking member parallel to the flag pole axis, the first locking member is designed to move in a direction perpendicular to the flag pole. This inverted approach allows the operator to easily disengage the locking mechanism by pushing the protruding end of the first locking member sideways, significantly improving ease of operation while the perpendicular movement path itself keeps the structural complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing means automatically returns the first locking member to its locked position after it has been moved perpendicular to the flag pole for disengagement. This self-service feature eliminates the need for additional mechanisms to reset the locking member, improving ease of operation while avoiding increased device complexity through automatic resetting.
3Reliability
If a biasing means is used to apply force on the locking member, then the reliability of locking engagement is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A simple compression spring is used as the biasing means, representing a simple, inexpensive, and reliable solution. The spring provides continuous biasing force to maintain locking engagement without requiring complex actuation mechanisms. This disposable-style simple component approach improves reliability of locking engagement while minimizing device complexity through the use of a basic, well-understood mechanical element.
4Productivity
If the second connecting member is removed from the first connecting member for flag replacement, then the productivity is improved, but the reliability of attachment temporarily decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The operator first moves the first locking member to its released position before removing the second connecting member. This preliminary action ensures that the locking mechanism is disengaged in advance, allowing for quick removal and replacement of flags. The preliminary disengagement of the locking member maintains reliability by ensuring the connection is properly released before physical separation, preventing accidental detachment during normal operation.
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 quick and effortless flag replacement with secure attachment, reducing operational time and minimizing the risk of parts falling off, while allowing easy integration of light reflectors for flag poles.
Implementation Method 1
the biasing means comprises a spring member acting between the first locking member and portions of the connecting member provided with the first locking member
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5
AI summary
A device (1) for removably securing a flag (2) to a flag pole (3) which device (1) comprises first connecting member (7) configured to be secured to the flag pole (3)and a second connecting member (9) configured to be removably secured to said first connecting member (7) and when secured to the latter act as a stop for a flag (2)which is brought over the flag pole (3). The device (1) further comprises locking means configured to removably secure the first (7) and second (9) connecting members with respect to each other,which locking means comprises a locking member which is movable between a locking position and a releasing position. The locking means further comprises biasing means configured to apply a biasing force on said locking member towards said locking position in which said biasing force is to be overcome for transferring the locking member to said releasing position.