Telescopic support rod
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable rods for supporting various spaces, such as curtains or shelving systems, often require external tools for length adjustment and have protrusions that are aesthetically undesirable and hinder free motion, while also being costly and delayed due to the need for custom manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
A telescopic support rod system with a nested and nesting member configuration, featuring a pawl mechanism with outwardly biased arms and a detent system that allows for adjustable length without visible indexing, enabling smooth exterior surfaces and tool-free length modification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed length support rods are made in a large number of lengths and heights to accommodate varying spaces, then adaptability to different spaces is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support rod is divided into multiple telescoping segments that can be extended or retracted to achieve different lengths, allowing a single rod design to accommodate various space requirements without requiring multiple fixed-length variants
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple rod segments are nested within each other in a telescoping configuration, with each segment capable of sliding relative to the others, enabling continuous length adjustment while maintaining a compact stored position
2Manufacturing precision
If adjustable rods use indexed openings and biased detents for accurate length selection and weight support, then manufacturing precision and load-bearing capacity are improved, but device complexity and exterior smoothness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The indexing function is extracted from the exterior surface and relocated to an internal mechanism, allowing the exterior to remain smooth while the internal detent and opening system provides precise length selection and load-bearing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The indexing mechanism is moved from the external surface to the internal structure of the rod, transitioning the complexity from a visible external feature to a hidden internal mechanism that does not affect the exterior smoothness
3Ease of operation
If external bars or friction couplers are used for length adjustment, then ease of operation is improved, but the need for external tools worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The rod incorporates an internal detent mechanism with biased arms that automatically engage with indexing openings to lock the telescoping segments at selected lengths, eliminating the need for external tools or separate fastening components
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 telescopic support rod system provides a cost-effective, aesthetically pleasing, and efficient means to adjust length, supporting varying loads without the need for external tools, while minimizing delays in availability.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member, such as a spring, configured to exert force on the arms to maintain the outward bias
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for adjustable telescopic support rods are provided. Specifically, the telescopic support rods in accordance with some embodiments comprise selectably modifiable indexed lengths having no externally visible indication of the indexing means. Methods for modulating the length of the support rod and its use in, for example, vertical support for scaffolding and shelving units are also provided.