Telescoping Utility Pole With Dual Locking Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Extension poles used for outdoor tasks above ground level experience significant deflection and gravity-induced telescoping issues when extended, making it difficult to maintain axial orientation and adjust length, especially in vertical orientations.
Innovation Solution
A telescoping utility pole with dual locking systems, an external locking system at the distal end of the proximal pole portion and an internal locking system within the proximal pole portion, which eliminates clearance-induced deflection and allows for length adjustment without unwanted telescoping under gravity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the extension pole is extended to reach high areas, then the working height is increased, but the pole experiences significant deflection
Solution Approach 1:
The extension pole is divided into multiple telescoping sections that can be independently locked. Each section has its own locking mechanism with cam members and slots that provide discrete locking positions, breaking the continuous pole into manageable segments that reduce overall deflection while maintaining extendability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism uses a cam member that can rotate between locked and unlocked positions. The cam member engages with slots in the pole sections, providing dynamic control over the telescoping action. This allows the pole to transition between fixed locked states and movable unlocked states, enabling both stability when extended and adjustability when needed.
2Ease of operation
If the pole locking mechanism is released with the pole in vertical orientation, then the pole can be adjusted, but gravity causes unwanted telescoping
Solution Approach 1:
The cam member is designed to engage with the slot in a way that prevents gravity-induced telescoping. When locked, the cam member's geometry creates a mechanical constraint that counteracts the gravitational force trying to collapse the telescoping sections. The cam slot orientation and cam profile are specifically designed to maintain axial orientation against gravity's pull.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be engaged before the pole is placed in vertical orientation for use. Once locked in the desired extended position, the mechanism maintains that position against gravity. The cam member and slot arrangement ensures that the pole sections remain locked in place, preventing any gravity-induced telescoping during vertical use.
3Device complexity
If a single locking system is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the pole cannot maintain axial orientation under gravity
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented into multiple independent locking mechanisms, each associated with a specific pole section. Each locking mechanism includes its own cam member and slot arrangement, allowing independent control of each telescoping section. This segmentation enables precise control over axial orientation at each joint, maintaining overall pole stability under gravity.
Data Source
AI summary
An extension pole. At least some of the illustrative embodiments include a first tubular member telescoped within a second tubular member. A first locking system is disposed within the internal volume of the first tubular member, and a second locking system is disposed at least partially on an outside diameter of the second tubular member.