Motorized Extension Pole with Decoupled Handle Rotation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extension poles require inconvenient adjustments in length and orientation due to the need to lower the pole to loosen and tighten the collet, and the handle often rotates with the pole members, positioning the control switch unfavorably.
Innovation Solution
A motorized extension pole with a battery-powered, variable speed drive motor that telescopically moves the inner pole member with respect to the outer pole member and allows for rotation without moving the handle, using an indexing mechanism to keep the control switch in a convenient position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the extension pole uses a manual collet adjustment mechanism, then the structure is simple, but the length adjustment process is awkward and inconvenient requiring the pole to be lowered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical collet adjustment system with an electric motor-driven screw mechanism. The motor automatically extends and retracts the inner pole member through rotational motion converted to linear motion via a screw thread, eliminating the need for manual loosening and tightening of the collet.
Solution Approach 2:
The motorized system performs the length adjustment automatically through a switch that activates the motor. The system self-regulates the extension and retraction process without requiring the user to manually manipulate the collet, making the pole adjust itself based on user input.
2Ease of operation
If the handle rotates with the pole members, then the structure is simple, but the control switch position becomes inconvenient when the pole orientation needs to be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the rotation function into two independent segments: the handle remains fixed in position while only the pole members rotate. This is achieved through a rotation mechanism that decouples the handle from the pole member rotation, allowing the switch to stay in a convenient position while the pole orientation changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a rotation mechanism as an intermediary between the handle and the pole members. This intermediary allows the pole members to rotate to desired orientations while the handle and switch remain stationary, mediating between the need for orientation flexibility and switch accessibility.
3Productivity
If the extension pole requires manual adjustment, then the device is simpler, but the adjustment process takes more time and effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment process with an electric motor-driven system. The motor rapidly extends and retracts the inner pole member through screw thread conversion of rotational to linear motion, significantly increasing adjustment speed compared to manual collet manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The motorized system provides dynamic adjustment capability, allowing the pole length to change quickly and smoothly in response to electrical signals. The variable speed motor enables controlled extension and retraction at optimal speeds, making the adjustment process both faster and more flexible than static manual adjustment.
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 convenient length adjustment and orientation of attached tools without requiring the pole to be lowered, maintaining the control switch in a user-friendly position throughout the process.
Implementation Method 1
A battery powered, variable speed drive motor is secured to the first end of the first pole member with the drive motor being selectively reversible. The drive motor includes a rotatable driven member.
Implementation Method 2
An elongated externally threaded screw or bolt member, having first and second ends, has its first end thereof coupled to the driven member for rotation therewith in a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction. The screw member is threadably coupled to the second pole member whereby rotation of the screw member in the first direction by the drive motor causes the second pole member to move from its retracted position towards its extended position.
Data Source
AI summary
A motorized extension pole including a first hollow pole member having a second pole member telescopically mounted in said first pole member. The second pole member is selectively moved between extended and retracted positions with respect to said first pole member by a battery powered drive motor. The drive motor is mounted within a handle attached to the inner end of the first pole member. A coupling mechanism interconnects the handle to the first pole member which permits the first pole member to be selectively rotated without rotating the handle so that the control switch on the handle is always located in a convenient position. The pole also includes limit switches for controlling the retraction and extension of the second pole member.