Modular Connector System for Pole Accessory Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection systems between elongated poles and accessories, such as brooms and mops, are inefficient for quick attachment and detachment, storage, and compatibility with various tools, leading to a need for improved connection mechanisms that facilitate easy switching and mounting.
Innovation Solution
A modular connector system featuring a buckle mechanism with button protrusions and side openings, allowing for easy engagement and disengagement of accessories, and a mounting connector system with connector arms and recesses that enable secure attachment to a vertical surface for storage, allowing the pole to be swapped between different accessories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional connection system is used between pole and accessory, then the connection is simple in structure, but the attachment and detachment process is slow and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate functional components: a connector with button protrusions on the pole, and a corresponding receiver with side openings on the accessory. This segmentation allows for rapid engagement through simple insertion while maintaining structural integrity through distributed connection points.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism incorporates movable buttons that can be pressed to release the accessory. The dynamic element allows the system to transition between locked and unlocked states quickly, enabling fast attachment and detachment without complex tools or procedures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a standardized connection mechanism is used, then compatibility with multiple accessories is improved, but the connection and disconnection process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design with multiple button protrusions and corresponding side openings creates a universal interface that can accommodate various accessory types. The standardized pattern of connection points allows the same pole-connector to work with different accessories while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If frequent swapping of accessories is required, then task versatility is improved, but time loss during switching increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is pre-configured with multiple button protrusions positioned to engage with corresponding side openings on various accessories. This preliminary arrangement of connection elements allows accessories to be quickly attached and detached without requiring adjustment or realignment during the switching process.
4Reliability
If a secure connection is achieved, then connection reliability is improved, but the ease of disconnection for storage or swapping is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The disconnection mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through a simple pressing motion on the button. When the button is pressed, it automatically releases the engagement with the side openings, allowing the accessory to be detached without requiring tools or complex maneuvers. The same button structure that provides secure connection also enables easy release.
Data Source
AI summary
Accessory connectors, mounting connector systems, and associated methods are provided. An accessory connector includes a tubular main body that extends from a first end to a second end. The tubular main body defines a pair of connector apertures between the first end and the second end. The accessory connector is removably connectable to the elongate pole and movable between a disconnected position and a connected position in which the pair of buttons extend through the pair of connector apertures.