Self-Latching Pole Grip Mechanism for Trekking Poles
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pole grip systems for walking sticks, trekking poles, and ski poles face issues with material deformation fatigue and temperature-dependent elastic behavior, leading to inconsistent and adjustable fixing mechanisms, which is undesirable in varying weather conditions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a self-latching mechanism using displaceable or rotatable latching-in means, such as a loop-like, ring-like, or eyelet-like device, which is pushed into a hook-like device to achieve a secure fastening without material deformation, providing a mechanism that is less susceptible to wear and temperature-dependent forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If elastic deformation of the hook-like device is used to fix the bow, then the bow can be easily fixed and prevented from sliding out, but the material suffers from fatigue due to repeated deformation and the fixing action becomes temperature-dependent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the elastic deformation mechanism with a cam-based mechanical locking system. The cam profile converts the insertion motion into a deterministic locking action where the camlobe engages with the cam follower, eliminating reliance on temperature-dependent elastic properties while providing consistent fixing action across varying temperatures.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fundamental operating parameter from elastic deformation (which is temperature-dependent) to geometric engagement through cam profiles (which are temperature-independent). The cam profile geometry and follower engagement provide a deterministic mechanical advantage that maintains consistent fixing force regardless of temperature variations.
2Device complexity
If elastic deformation is used for fastening, then the mechanism is simple in structure, but the repeated deformation leads to material fatigue and reduced durability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the elastic deformation mechanism with a cam-based mechanical locking system. The cam profile and follower create a deterministic engagement that eliminates repeated elastic cycling, thereby preventing material fatigue while maintaining structural simplicity through the integrated cam design within the hook body.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam profile is pre-formed during manufacturing with optimized geometry to provide the locking action. The camlobe and cam follower are positioned in advance to ensure proper engagement, eliminating the need for repeated deformation cycles and extending component lifespan through wear-resistant geometric contact.
3Ease of operation
If the hook legs are made elastic to enable self-latching, then the fastening is automatic and easy to operate, but the elastic behavior varies with temperature making it unpredictable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the elastic self-latching mechanism with a cam-based automatic locking system. The cam profile geometry inherently provides the self-latching function through its shaped contour that guides the cam follower into the locked position during insertion, eliminating temperature-dependent elastic behavior while maintaining automatic operation and predictable fixing consistency.
Data Source
AI summary
A pole grip (1), particularly for walking sticks, trekking poles, alpine ski poles, cross-country ski poles and Nordic walking poles, comprising a grip body (3) and a hooking device (14) for attaching a hand-retaining device particularly provided in the form of a hand strap or a glove. Latching structure (6, 11) is placed in the area of the hook-like device (14) in such a manner that a strap-shaped, ring-shaped or eyelet-shaped device (33), which is inserted from above into the hooking device (14)and which is provided on a hand-retaining device, is fixed in the hooking device (14) in a self-latching manner. This simple and self-latching mechanism enormously simplifies use and is preferably combined with a safety release in the event of a heavy load acting in the opening direction of the hooking device.