Telescoping Pole with Wheel Assembly for Upper Body Propulsion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Longboard users are limited to lower body exercise for propulsion and lack a device to utilize upper body strength for propelling and directing their longboards, especially in navigating varied topography.

Innovation Solution

A telescoping pole with a first and second portion and a wheel assembly, featuring a spinning wheel that rotates perpendicular to the rod, allowing users to apply axial force for propulsion and control, using coiled springs for spring-loaded action and friction management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If users propel longboards by pushing off the ground with their foot, then the longboard can move forward, but users are limited to lower body exercise and cannot utilize upper body strength

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveupper body strength utilizationVSAvoidpropulsion method limitation
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a pole as an intermediary tool between the user and the ground. The pole transfers upper body forces to propel the longboard forward, enabling users to utilize upper body strength while maintaining ease of operation through a simple gripping and pushing motion

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If users steer the longboard by shifting weight or foot position, then direction can be changed, but users must change foot position which disrupts riding continuity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesteering continuityVSAvoidsteering mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the pole multi-functional by using it for both propulsion and steering. The same pole that pushes the user forward also serves as a steering mechanism through lateral movements, eliminating the need for separate steering actions and maintaining riding continuity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Use of energy by moving object

If a telescoping pole with spring mechanism is added for propulsion, then upper body strength can be utilized, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveupper body strength utilizationVSAvoidpole structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a telescoping pole where segments are nested within each other, allowing the pole to extend and retract. This nesting principle reduces the stored complexity while maintaining the functional complexity needed for upper body propulsion

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates a spring mechanism that provides dynamic assistance to the user's pushing motion. The spring dynamically adjusts to the user's force application, providing assistance during propulsion while adding minimal structural complexity through its integrated design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enables users to effectively propel and steer their longboards using upper body strength, providing control over speed and direction without changing foot position, enhancing the riding experience and exercise variety.

Implementation Method 1

using coiled springs for spring-loaded action

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring action: Spring

Implementation Method 2

a telescoping pole preferably spring loaded wherein a section of the second portion is placed within the first portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic potential energy: Elasticity

Implementation Method 3

a wheel assembly having a spinning wheel which rotates perpendicular to both the first and second portions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS8465056B2Longboard skating propulsion pole for land paddling
Publication Date: 2013.06.18 BOLT PRODN SERVICES
  • US8465056B2 patent drawing
  • US8465056B2 patent drawing
  • US8465056B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention is directed to a telescoping pole to help direct a longboard comprising a first and second portion. The first portion includes a first end, a second end and a first tubular shaft. A first handle is positioned at the first end, while a second handle is positioned along the first tubular shaft between the first and second end. The second portion also has first end, a second end, and a second tubular shaft (having a diameter less than the first tubular shaft). The first end of the second portion is attached to the first portion through a first coiled spring. A wheel assembly having a spinning wheel is affixed to the second end of the second portion having a third tubular shaft having diameter less than the second tubular shaft. A second coiled spring is placed over the third tubular shaft, which engages the second portion.