Folding Handle Assembly with Spring-Locking Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices lack a handle mechanism that can be easily deployed or stowed and locked in multiple positions, particularly in tools like air guns, which limits user convenience and versatility.

Innovation Solution

A locking handle assembly featuring a folding handle with a spring bias, a roll pin, and a gudgeon, allowing the handle to transition between locked and unlocked states by translating along a piston axis, with chamfered ends mating with divots on the gudgeon to secure the handle in various orientations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a folding handle mechanism is added to allow deployment and stowing, then user convenience and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandle deployment capabilityVSAvoidlocking mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The handle is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable between deployed and stowed positions through a folding mechanism. The locking portions enable the handle to transition between fixed states, providing adaptability while maintaining structural integrity. This dynamic design allows the handle to adapt to different user needs and operational contexts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

When the handle is stowed, it folds into a compact configuration that nests within or alongside the main device body. The locking portions ensure the handle remains securely positioned in the stowed state, minimizing the overall footprint and reducing device complexity during storage or transport.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of operation

If multiple locking positions are implemented, then user control and ergonomics are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandle positioning controlVSAvoidlocking portion alignment

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The locking portions are designed with asymmetric geometries that naturally guide the handle into specific locked positions. The complementary shapes of the locking portions on the handle and device body create predetermined engagement points, allowing multiple stable positions without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances. The asymmetric design ensures proper alignment through form-fit rather than relying solely on precision machining.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

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 the handle to be securely locked in multiple positions, enhancing user control and versatility, while allowing easy transition between deployed and stowed states without detaching from the base, improving ergonomic handling and operational efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

A folding handle is rotatably attached to the gudgeon by way of a roll pin. The static handle is part of the assembly and is fixedly attached without the possibility of rotating relative to the rest of the assembly

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS10753702B2Air gun with folding handle assembly

Publication Date: 2020.08.25 GUARDAIR CORP

AI summary

Devices and methods for folding handles are disclosed.