Magnetic Golf Bag Coupling for Collapsible Trolleys
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional golf bag securing apparatuses on golf vehicles are time-consuming and awkward to use, especially for individuals with limited mobility, and can interfere with the collapsibility of collapsible trolleys, with existing solutions like plug and socket arrangements risking breakage or detachment.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic coupling system using ferromagnetic materials, where a golf bag support apparatus includes an upwardly projecting locating member or a downwardly extending recess, allowing for secure attachment and resistance to lateral movement, with optional features like movable ferromagnetic plates and rotating bases for enhanced coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional lower securing apparatus (straps or arms) are used to secure the golf bag, then the golf bag can be securely attached, but the securing process becomes time-consuming and awkward, especially for people with limited mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical lower securing apparatus (straps or arms requiring manual fastening) with a magnetic coupling system. The magnetic coupling apparatus uses magnetic attraction forces to automatically secure the golf bag to the support structure, eliminating the need for manual strap fastening or arm adjustment. This substitution of mechanical fastening with magnetic attraction directly resolves the contradiction by maintaining secure attachment while dramatically improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling system enables self-service operation where the golf bag automatically couples to the support structure through magnetic attraction when placed in position. The user simply needs to position the bag, and the magnetic force automatically secures it without requiring the user to perform complex fastening operations. This self-securing mechanism resolves the contradiction by making the securing process intuitive and accessible to people with limited mobility.
2Reliability
If conventional lower securing apparatus are used, then the golf bag can be secured, but the apparatus interferes with the collapsing of collapsible trolleys
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical securing components (straps and arms that occupy physical space and interfere with folding mechanisms) with a magnetic coupling system. The magnetic coupling apparatus can be integrated into the trolley's existing structure without requiring additional mechanical fastening components that would interfere with collapsing. The magnetic force acts through the material of the trolley frame, allowing the structure to collapse freely while maintaining securing capability when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the securing function from the mechanical fastening system and implements it separately through magnetic coupling. This separation allows the main trolley structure to collapse without constraint, while the magnetic coupling components can be independently positioned or integrated without interfering with the folding mechanism. The securing function is taken out from the mechanical domain and implemented in the magnetic domain, resolving the conflict between securing and collapsibility.
3Ease of operation
If plug and socket arrangements are used for lower securing, then the securing process is simplified, but the plugs risk breaking or becoming detached from the bag
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical plug and socket fastening system with a magnetic coupling system. Instead of relying on mechanical interlocking components that can break or detach, the magnetic coupling uses magnetic attraction forces to secure the connection. This substitution maintains ease of operation (simple placement) while dramatically improving reliability, as magnetic bonds are more resistant to accidental detachment and breakage compared to mechanical plastic plugs.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling system utilizes ferromagnetic materials integrated into the trolley structure and golf bag base. These composite magnetic components create a strong, reliable attachment through magnetic attraction while maintaining the simplicity of use. The ferromagnetic materials provide both the ease of automatic coupling and the reliable attachment strength, resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and attachment reliability.
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
The magnetic coupling system provides a secure, easy-to-use, and mobility-friendly method for attaching golf bags, preventing accidental disengagement and allowing for easy removal, while maintaining trolley collapsibility.
Implementation Method 1
the upwardly projecting locating member or the recess body portion comprises a ferromagnetic material or element
Data Source
AI summary
A golf vehicle including a golf bag support; wherein the golf vehicle is selected from a golf trolley and a golf cart; wherein the golf bag support includes a lower support member; wherein the lower support member includes one of an upwardly projecting locating member and a downwardly extending recess defined by a recess body portion; and wherein the upwardly projecting locating member or the recess body portion comprises a ferromagnetic material.