Adjustable Extension Rod for Jack Arm Storage and Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing jack arm is too short, requiring operators to adopt a squatting position, leading to poor operation efficiency and fatigue, and extending it for standing poses complicates storage due to increased length.
Innovation Solution
An extension rod with a connecting rod, joints, locking holes, and a lockup mechanism using a spring steel elastic body and bolt, allowing adjustable extension and easy assembly/disassembly for convenient storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the arm length is increased to enable standing operation, then operator comfort and efficiency improve, but storage convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The arm is divided into two separable parts: the original jack arm and an extension rod. The extension rod can be attached when needed for standing operation and removed for storage, effectively segmenting the arm into modular components that can be independently stored.
Solution Approach 2:
The arm length is made dynamically adjustable through the extension mechanism. The arm can be extended to a longer configuration during operation for standing comfort, and collapsed to a shorter configuration for storage, allowing the system to adapt to different operational states.
2Productivity
If the arm length is increased for standing operation, then operation efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The extension rod is designed as a separate, simple component with basic cylindrical geometry and minimal features (locking holes, grooves). This segmentation keeps each individual part simple while achieving the complex function of adjustable length when combined.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension rod incorporates a self-locking mechanism using spring steel and gravity. When the rod is inserted, the spring steel automatically engages with the locking holes without requiring additional actuators, motors, or complex locking mechanisms, thereby maintaining simplicity while enabling efficient operation.
3Ease of operation
If the arm length is increased, then operator fatigue reduces, but storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the arm into removable components, the extension rod can be detached and stored separately or alongside the original arm. This allows the storage space to accommodate the original compact arm size while providing the option to add extension when needed, rather than permanently requiring space for the extended configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension rod can be nested within or alongside the original jack arm during storage. The cylindrical extension rod fits within the same storage container as the original arm, effectively utilizing the existing storage volume without requiring additional space proportional to the extended length.
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 operators to work in a standing position, improving efficiency and reducing fatigue while allowing easy storage by extending the jack arm length and facilitating quick disconnection for storage.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic body used for connecting to either the first joint or the connecting rod and a lockup bolt formed on the elastic body
Data Source
AI summary
An extension rod for a jack arm comprises a connecting rod having a first joint and a second joint formed at the respective ends of the connecting rod. A first locking hole and a second locking hole are formed in the first and second joints, respectively. The extension rod also comprises a lockup mechanism comprising an elastic body configured to connect to either the first joint or the connecting rod and a lockup bolt formed on the elastic body, and configured to engage the first locking hole.