Telescopic Operating Rod Assembly With Integrated Rotation Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing operating rod assemblies for string trimmers and hedge trimmers are bulky, complex, and costly due to the need for a rotating mechanism to switch functions, which increases size and production costs while reducing transportation efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A dual-rod assembly with a connector system that allows for telescopic and rotational movement, featuring a hollow first rod and a smaller second rod with limiting pieces and a locking mechanism, enabling both functions with a simpler structure and lower production costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a rotating mechanism is added at the end portion of the operating rod to realize function switching, then the string trimmer can switch between grass mowing and trimming functions, but the size of the machine increases, the structure becomes complicated, and the production cost greatly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the telescopic function and rotation function into a single integrated connector structure. The connector simultaneously provides telescopic movement through its movable connection structure and rotation function through the rotating connection structure, eliminating the need for separate rotating mechanisms at the rod end. This integration reduces structural complexity while maintaining both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed as a multi-functional component that performs both telescopic connection and rotation functions. The first connecting structure enables telescopic movement between rod sections, while the second connecting structure enables rotation, making the connector a universal joint that handles both motion types without requiring additional dedicated mechanisms.
2Volume of moving object
If the operating rod is divided into two sections with a connector to enable telescopic motion, then the storage and transportation space is reduced, but a rotating mechanism must be newly added to realize function switching, which increases the size and production cost
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates both telescopic and rotation functions in a single component. The first connecting structure provides telescopic motion for compact storage, while the second connecting structure provides rotation for function switching. This merging ensures that the space-saving telescopic design does not compromise the adaptability needed for different trimming functions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a rotating mechanism is added to the operating rod for function switching, then the string trimmer can perform both grass mowing and trimming, but the production cost greatly increases
Solution Approach 1:
By combining both telescopic and rotation functions into a single connector component, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces production costs compared to having separate telescopic mechanisms and rotating mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector serves as a universal joint performing multiple functions (telescopic connection and rotation), which simplifies the overall bill of materials and manufacturing requirements. Instead of producing and assembling separate specialized components for each function, a single multi-functional connector reduces production complexity and cost.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides an operating rod assembly and a string trimmer. The operating rod assembly includes a first rod provided with a first limiting piece, a second rod provided with a second limiting piece and a connector for connecting the first rod and the second rod. An outer diameter of the second rod is smaller than an inner diameter of the first rod; the first limiting piece and the second limiting piece are matched to limit the relative rotation angle between the first rod and the second rod. When the connector is in a locking state, two ends of the connector respectively lock the first rod and the second rod; when the connector is in a loosening state, the connector releases the second rod or the first rod, and the first rod and the second rod can rotate and stretch relative to each other.