Trekking Pole Grip Locking Channel for Magnetic Glove Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trekking and ski poles lack a reliable and efficient mechanism for a releasable connection between the grip and the user's hand or glove, which is crucial for maintaining control during use.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly comprising a grip top with a locking channel and a release button, utilizing a magnetically attracted ferrous puck for secure attachment to the user's glove, allowing easy locking and unlocking with a spring-assisted mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional strap or tether connection is used between the pole and user's hand, then the connection is simple in structure, but the reliability and security of the connection is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is divided into distinct functional components: a grip top portion with a locking channel, a release button mechanism, and a magnetic coupling system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function reliably while maintaining overall system manageability despite increased complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The release button is nested within the grip top structure, with the magnetic element embedded in the release button and the ferrous element embedded in the puck. This nesting arrangement consolidates multiple functions into compact, integrated components, improving reliability without excessive complexity.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented, then the connection reliability improves, but the ease of operation for quick release deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling system replaces traditional mechanical locking mechanisms. The magnetic attraction between the magnetic element in the release button and the ferrous element in the puck provides secure locking without complex mechanical interlocks, while allowing rapid release when the button is actuated.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring is pre-compressed in the locked position, storing energy ready for quick release. When the release button is actuated, the pre-compressed spring immediately drives the release mechanism, enabling rapid detachment without requiring the user to exert significant force or perform multiple actions.
3Ease of operation
If a magnetic coupling system is used, then the ease of attachment improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling functionality is extracted as discrete elements: a magnetic element embedded in the release button and a ferrous element embedded in the puck. This extraction allows the magnetic system to be integrated into the existing connector structure without requiring a complete redesign, balancing ease of attachment with manageable complexity.
4Manufacturing precision
If the locking channel is designed with tight tolerances, then the manufacturing precision improves, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking channel geometry is designed with specific dimensional parameters and tolerances that balance manufacturing feasibility with functional performance. The channel dimensions are optimized to accommodate the puck while maintaining secure locking, using parameter ranges that are achievable with standard manufacturing processes rather than requiring ultra-precise machining.
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
Provides a secure, reliable, and user-friendly connection between the pole and the user's hand, ensuring control and ease of use by enabling quick attachment and detachment without manual effort.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet is provided in the release button. The connector member includes a ferrous material
Implementation Method 2
A spring or other type of biasing member may be supported in the interior of the grip top and may extend generally vertically within the grip top
Data Source
Figure 1~1A
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A trekking pole or the like includes a grip top (20) fixed at the top end. A user's glove (72) supports a puck (70). The puck (70) is placed on a release button (50) then slid into a locking channel (30) on the grip top (20), from the release button (50) into the locking channel (30). Thereafter, the release button (50) automatically locks the puck (70) in the channel (30). When the release button (50) is pressed down, the puck (70) can be removed. A magnet (62) on the release button (50) can assist in locating the puck (70) properly on the release button (50) and also in withdrawing the puck (70) from the locking channel (30).