Low-Profile Telescopic Pole Coupler to Prevent Branch Snagging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing telescopic poles for forestry and horticulture often tangle with tree branches due to the protruding locking mechanisms, causing inconvenience during use.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile locking mechanism for telescopic poles that minimizes interference with branches, featuring a cam-over locking mechanism and a pin actuator with a low profile design, allowing smooth extension and retraction without snagging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If protruding locking mechanisms are used for telescopic poles, then the locking mechanism can effectively secure pole segments, but the mechanism may snag on tree branches causing inconvenience
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is repositioned from a protruding lateral configuration to an integrated end-position configuration. The lock/clamp mechanism is mounted at the end of the lower pole segment, with the pin extending through both pole segments along the longitudinal axis. This dimensional repositioning eliminates protruding elements that could snag on branches while maintaining effective locking capability through the pin's engagement with holes in both segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism components are nested within the pole segment structure itself. The pin mechanism is housed within the lower pole segment, and the clamping mechanism is integrated into the end of the lower segment. This nesting approach eliminates external protruding elements that could interact with tree branches, while the pin and clamping components remain functional for securing the telescopic joint.
2Ease of operation
If lever mechanism and tightening mechanism extend outwardly from the periphery, then the mechanisms are accessible for operation, but they are more likely to tangle with branches
Solution Approach 1:
The problematic protruding elements (lever mechanism and tightening mechanism) are extracted from the peripheral extension configuration and repositioned to operate from within the pole segment structure. The lever actuates the pin through an internal connection, and the tightening mechanism operates from the end of the lower segment rather than extending outward. This extraction eliminates the tangling hazard while preserving operational accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the operating mechanisms extend outward from the pole periphery, the design inverts the configuration by having the mechanisms positioned at the end of the lower segment with operating elements that extend inward or along the longitudinal axis. The pin extends through both segments rather than protruding laterally, and the clamping mechanism operates from the end position rather than from a peripheral extension.
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
The low-profile design effectively prevents the locking mechanisms from tangling with branches, enhancing user convenience and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a cam-over locking mechanism
Implementation Method 2
the clamping/tightening mechanism 24 is a threaded member that upon tightening, will cause the upper portions of the coupler to clamp against the upper pole
Data Source
AI summary
A coupler for telescopic pole segments has low profile locking mechanism actuators for providing a double locking function that reduces engagement with branches.