Garden Tool Push Rod Locking Mechanism for Quick Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lawn mower rod mechanisms are complex, time-consuming to operate, and inconvenient for packaging due to their design, which complicates the locking and unlocking process and increases product size.
Innovation Solution
A rod mechanism with a simple structure featuring a first rod pivotally connected to the garden tool's main body, equipped with an actuator and locking component that can be unlocked by pressing the second rod, allowing for easy folding and unfolding, and incorporating a position sensor to prevent accidental startup when in storage position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a releasable locking mechanism with a locking nut is used to lock the upper rod, then the rod can be locked and unlocked, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex locking nut mechanism and replaces it with a simplified locking component that can be locked and unlocked by pressing the rod. The locking component includes a locking ball and a locking groove, eliminating the need for rotational locking nuts and reducing operational complexity while maintaining reliable locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-operating through the pressing action on the rod. When the rod is pressed, the locking component automatically engages with the locking groove to secure the rod in place, and releases when pressed again, without requiring manual manipulation of separate locking components.
2Reliability
If a second locking component is provided between the lower rod and rod base, then the locking function is enhanced, but the product size increases and packaging becomes inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking functions into a single integrated locking component on the first rod that works with a corresponding locking structure on the rod base. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate locking components on multiple rods, reducing overall product volume while maintaining comprehensive locking functionality across all rod connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking component on the first rod is designed to universally engage with the locking groove structure, providing a multi-functional solution that secures both the upper and lower rod connections through a single mechanism, thereby reducing the total number of components and product size.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the rod extends toward the back for operator safety, then the operator works at a safe distance, but the stored volume increases when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The rod is designed with dynamic positioning capability, allowing it to extend to a safe distance during operation and fold back to a compact position during storage. The quick-locking mechanism enables rapid transition between these two states, maintaining operator safety during use while minimizing stored volume when the tool is not in operation.
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
Simplifies operation, reduces packaging complexity, and enhances safety by ensuring the machine cannot be started when in storage position, thereby reducing costs and improving user safety.
Implementation Method 1
The elastic member is connected to a lower end of the sliding member for the sliding member to have an upwardly moving tendency
Data Source
AI summary
A rod mechanism for a garden tool having a main body includes a first rod pivotally connected to the main body and movable between an in-use position and a storage position. A locking component engages the main body to lock the first rod in one of the in-use position and the storage position. An actuator moves between a released position and a triggered position, the actuator when in the triggered position unlocking the locking component from the main body, the actuator when in the released position orienting the locking component so as to be lockable to the main body. A second rod connected to the first rod moves to a preset position allowing the actuator to move to one of the triggered position or the released position. A position sensor on the main body generates a sensing signal when the first rod pivots to at least one of the in-use position and the storage position.