Telescoping Rod Connector Merging Locking and Tensioning Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support rods lack sufficient locking force to prevent slippage between telescoping rods and require separate mechanisms for tensioning and locking, complicating their construction and use.
Innovation Solution
A dual-purpose connector that locks and tensions telescoping rods by rotating them relative to each other, using an insert with a conical portion and a split-ring sleeve to create friction and expand outwardly against the outer rod, ensuring secure engagement without additional components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a connector is designed to provide sufficient locking force to prevent slippage between telescoping rods, then the locking reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to requiring additional components or mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking function and tensioning function into a single integrated connector mechanism. The split-ring sleeve simultaneously provides locking engagement with the outer rod and tensioning force through its elastic expansion, eliminating the need for separate locking and tensioning components.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed to perform multiple functions: it locks the telescoping rods at the desired length, tensions the rods against support surfaces, and prevents slippage. The split-ring sleeve acts as both a locking element and a tensioning element, providing multi-functionality in a single component.
2Reliability
If separate mechanisms are used for tensioning and locking the rods, then the locking reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring multiple adjustment steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the tensioning mechanism and locking mechanism into a single connector assembly. When the split-ring sleeve expands, it simultaneously tensions the rods and engages the locking surfaces, allowing both functions to be achieved in one action rather than requiring separate adjustment steps.
3Reliability
If additional components are added to the connector to improve locking and tensioning, then the reliability is improved, but the manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into two main components: an insert with a conical portion and a split-ring sleeve. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using simple processes, then assembled together. The split-ring sleeve can be formed from a single piece of elastic material, reducing manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The split-ring sleeve is designed as a flexible elastic component that can be formed from a single piece of material. This flexible shell structure provides both the locking engagement and tensioning force without requiring complex mechanisms or multiple parts, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining reliability.
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 connector provides a simple, effective mechanism for locking and tensioning telescoping rods, preventing slippage and simplifying assembly, while maintaining a clean appearance by being contained within the rods.
Implementation Method 1
rotating them relative to each other, using an insert with a conical portion and a split-ring sleeve to create friction and expand outwardly against the outer rod
Implementation Method 2
a split-ring sleeve to create friction and expand outwardly against the outer rod, ensuring secure engagement
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for telescoping rods is provided including a core shaft and a locking sleeve. The core shaft includes a threaded portion having a first threading and a conical portion having a first frustoconical surface. The locking sleeve can receive at least a portion of the core shaft and defines a second threading that engages the first threading. In use, the internal locking connector is coupled to an inner rod and an outer rod such that rotating the inner rod and the outer rod relative to one another both increases tension of the rods against opposing mounting surfaces and locks the outer rod in a position relative to the inner rod.