Foldable Tool Handle Hinge With Anti-Rotation Locking Joint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional long-handled cleaning tools are cumbersome for shipping and storage due to their size, and existing collapsible handles are prone to premature breakage, lack of strength, and interference from foreign particles, making them unreliable for axial forces and difficult to assemble/disassemble.
Innovation Solution
A foldable tool handle with a double-jointed articulating hinge mechanism that uses multiple locking features to maintain mechanical coupling between handle segments, resisting twisting and torsional forces, and can be easily converted between unfolded and folded configurations without requiring multiple springs or fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional long handles are used, then the tool is comfortable for operation, but the tool takes up too much space for shipping and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is divided into multiple segments that can be collapsed together for compact storage or extended for comfortable operation. The handle includes a first segment and a second segment that can be positioned in different configurations to provide both compactness and operational comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle incorporates a dynamic mechanism that allows it to change configuration between extended and collapsed states. The mechanism includes movable segments and locking features that enable the handle to transition between different length states to suit different operational and storage needs.
2Volume of moving object
If telescoping handles are used to reduce size, then the handle can collapse, but the handle breaks prematurely or collapses unexpectedly
Solution Approach 1:
The handle includes multiple locking features that engage before the handle can fail or collapse unexpectedly. These locking features provide redundant support and prevent premature failure by securing the handle segments in place before stress can cause damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle has varying diameters at different locations, with thicker sections at critical stress points and thinner sections where less strength is needed. This local quality optimization maintains overall strength and reliability while still allowing the handle to collapse to a compact size.
3Volume of moving object
If telescoping handles are used, then the handle can be compacted, but foreign particles or liquids interfere with proper operation
Solution Approach 1:
The handle segments are designed to nest together in a telescoping manner, with one segment inserted within another. This nested configuration allows the handle to collapse to a compact size for storage while maintaining the ability to extend for operation.
4Volume of moving object
If separate handle segments are used for shipping, then the handle can be compact, but the handle cannot be easily broken back down once assembled
Solution Approach 1:
The handle includes a dynamic mechanism that allows it to change configuration between extended and collapsed states. The mechanism includes movable segments and locking features that enable the handle to transition between different length states to suit different operational and storage needs.
Data Source
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AI summary
A foldable handle for long-handled tools includes first and second handle members hingedly coupled together at their respective coupling ends by a toggle linkage. The linkage is pivotably coupled to each of the handle members via first and second pivot pins respectively forming a double-jointed articulating joint. The joint includes multiple locking features which cooperate to form a rigid and anti-rotational joint when the handle members are in a coaxially- aligned operational unfolded condition. The linkage includes oppositely extending arm portions slideably insertable into complementary configured locking axial passages in the hinge members. Each handle member includes a plurality of mutually interlocking axial protrusions. The linkage includes a block-shaped middle portion between the arms which lockingly engage a transverse channel in each end of the handle members. Finally, a slideable collar covers the joint and threadably engages one of the handle member to conceal and secure the joint.