Telescoping Support Member With Auto-Locking Retraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retractable support members are often difficult to manually retract, which hinders quick and efficient setup and storage, particularly in scenarios where multiple units need to be utilized and stored efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A retractable support member design featuring two push button assemblies that allow for telescopic sliding of elongated portions, where one push button is automatically engaged to facilitate complete retraction without manual effort, utilizing spring mechanisms and hinged couplings to lock and unlock the support member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual retraction mechanisms are used, then the support member can be retracted, but the operation becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable support member utilizes self-service through automatic locking and unlocking mechanisms. When the support member is extended, the locking mechanism automatically engages to secure it in place. When retracted, the mechanism automatically disengages, eliminating the need for manual operation and reducing time for setup and storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is pre-configured to automatically engage when the support member is extended and automatically disengage when retracted. This preliminary arrangement of the mechanical components ensures that the locking action occurs without requiring additional manual intervention during the retraction process.
2Reliability
If locking mechanisms are added to secure the extended position, then the support capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism operates autonomously based on the position of the support member. It automatically locks when extended and unlocks when retracted, providing reliable securing without requiring complex control systems or multiple components. The simplicity of the self-service mechanism maintains low device complexity while ensuring high locking 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
Enables easy transition from an extended to a retracted configuration, improving the efficiency of setup and storage processes by allowing automatic engagement and disengagement of locking mechanisms, thus simplifying the handling of retractable support members.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing spring mechanisms and hinged couplings to lock and unlock the support member
Data Source
AI summary
A support member that is retractable and then can be extended and locked into place in order to support such item. The locking mechanisms for the support member include at least two push button assemblies. In order to retract the support member, a user pushes in the first push button and slides a first telescoping portion of the support member over a second telescoping portion of the support member, which then automatically pushes in the second push button to complete the retraction of the support member.