Insulated Probe Rod Handle Assembly for Safe Utility Locating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current soil probing methods for locating underground facilities are ergonomically and safely inadequate, leading to injuries and potential electrical shocks, as they lack effective handholds and insulation, and existing technologies do not provide sufficient protection against electrical hazards.
Innovation Solution
A probe rod holder apparatus with adjustable, pliable, and insulated handles that can be fitted to rods of varying lengths and cross-sections, ensuring ergonomic positioning and protection against electrical shock, allowing safe and precise location of underground utilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional soil probing methods are used without proper handles and insulation, then the apparatus structure remains simple, but user safety deteriorates due to electrical shock risks and ergonomic strain
Solution Approach 1:
The handle assembly is nested within the rod structure, with the insulating handle slidably receiving the rod and the latch mechanism nested within the handle assembly. This nested configuration provides comprehensive safety features while maintaining a compact overall structure that does not excessively increase device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle is constructed from electrically insulating materials that provide both electrical protection and ergonomic grip. This composite material approach simultaneously addresses electrical safety concerns and ergonomic requirements without adding separate protective components, thereby improving reliability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed handles are attached to probe rods, then the apparatus structure becomes more complex, but adaptability deteriorates when rods of varying lengths and cross-sections are used
Solution Approach 1:
The handle position along the rod is made adjustable rather than fixed, allowing the handle to be repositioned to accommodate rods of different lengths and cross-sections. The latch mechanism enables dynamic adjustment while maintaining secure attachment, providing adaptability without requiring a completely complex adjustable framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle assembly is designed as a universal component that can accommodate various rod types and sizes through its slidable and latchable configuration. This multi-functional design allows a single handle assembly to work with different rod configurations, enhancing adaptability without needing multiple specialized handles for each rod type.
3Ease of operation
If the handle is made rigid for structural stability, then structural stability is improved, but ergonomic comfort deteriorates due to lack of flexibility and cushioning
Solution Approach 1:
The handle incorporates a pliable, cushioning material that provides ergonomic comfort and flexibility for user grip. This flexible shell maintains sufficient structural stability for probing operations while significantly improving ease of operation by reducing hand fatigue and increasing comfort during extended use.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an apparatus and method of using that grips a rod of small diameter and uniform cross-section of metal, fiberglass, or composite material used to probe the soil to locate underground utilities in a manner that permits a user of any height or strength to ergonomically and safely advance the rod into the soil and retract the rod from the soil regardless of how deep the utility may be buried.