Telescoping Tube Latch Block for Simpler Locking and Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional telescoping assemblies are complex in structure and operation, making them difficult to use effectively.
Innovation Solution
A simplified telescoping assembly design featuring a first tube member, a second tube unit, an outer sleeve, and a latch block, allowing for easy axial movement between extended and retracted positions through a frictional engagement and sliding mechanism, with a latch block that transitions between locked and unlocked positions to secure the second tube member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional telescopic tube assembly is used with multiple components (telescopic tube subassembly, outer sleeve, retaining member, actuating member, biasing member), then the telescoping function is achieved, but the structure becomes complex and operation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the retaining member and actuating member functions into a single integrated latch block component. This latch block includes a blocking end region that engages with the shoulder surface to retain the second tube member, and an actuating end region that can be pressed to disengage the blocking end region, thereby merging multiple functional elements into one simplified component while maintaining the telescoping function
Solution Approach 2:
The outer sleeve is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, guides the axial movement of the second tube member, contains the latch block within its middle segment, and facilitates the telescoping operation through its frictional engagement with the first coupling end. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components
2Reliability
If a conventional telescopic tube assembly with multiple members and engagement mechanisms is used, then the telescoping function is achieved, but the operation becomes difficult and not easily usable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary components from the conventional telescopic assembly. By removing separate retaining members, actuating members, and biasing members, and replacing them with a simplified latch block mechanism that can be actuated by direct pressing, the operation becomes much easier and more intuitive while maintaining reliable telescoping function
Solution Approach 2:
The latch block is designed to be directly actuated by user pressure on its actuating end region, which automatically causes the blocking end region to disengage from the shoulder surface and permits axial movement of the second tube member. This self-actuating mechanism eliminates the need for separate actuating mechanisms or complex engagement procedures
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 design enhances operational ease and simplifies the structure, enabling smooth and reliable axial movement of the second tube member between extended and retracted positions while maintaining secure engagement.
Implementation Method 1
The upper segment is configured to be sleeved on and in frictional engagement with the first coupling end
Implementation Method 2
The lower segment is configured to be slidably engaged with the second tube member so as to permit the second tube member to move relative to the outer sleeve
Data Source
AI summary
A telescoping assembly includes a first tube member, a second tube member, an inner tubular member coupled to move with said second tube member, an outer sleeve mounted on said first tube member, and a latch block disposed in a latch bore of the outer sleeve and having an actuating end region and a blocking end region. In response to pressing of the actuating end region, the latch block is displaced from a locked position, where the blocking end region is in blocking engagement with a shoulder surface of the inner tubular member, to an unlocked position.