Tool Handle With Deployable Rod For Independent Standing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hand tools and implements, such as rakes and brooms, lack a mechanism to stand upright independently, forcing users to bend over repeatedly to pick them up, especially in scenarios like gardening or recreational activities.
Innovation Solution
An ergonomic handle with a movable rod that deploys and retracts, allowing the tool to stand upright by extending beyond the handle's lateral edge, either vertically or at an angle, using a guide channel and biasing element for secure positioning, enabling the tool to be freely standing on various surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional elongated handle design is used, then the tool structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the tool cannot stand upright independently and requires repeated bending to pick up
Solution Approach 1:
The rod is nested within the hollow interior cavity of the handle, allowing the tool to stand upright when the rod extends beyond the handle's lateral edge. This nesting approach adds the standing function without significantly increasing external dimensions or manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod is made movable with respect to the handle interior cavity, allowing it to be deployed or retracted as needed. This dynamic element enables the tool to transition between standing and non-standing configurations, improving ease of operation while maintaining structural simplicity.
2Reliability
If a movable rod mechanism is added to enable upright standing, then the tool can stand independently, but the handle structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The rod is nested within the hollow interior cavity of the handle, utilizing the existing handle structure to house the standing mechanism. This approach minimizes additional complexity by integrating the rod within the handle's natural geometry rather than adding external components.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing element automatically returns the rod to its retracted position after deployment, eliminating the need for complex locking or control mechanisms. This self-service feature maintains reliability while minimizing the complexity of the internal mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the rod is made movable with respect to the handle, then deployment and retraction is enabled, but additional components like guide channels and biasing elements are required
Solution Approach 1:
The guide channel serves multiple functions: it guides the rod's movement during deployment and retraction, provides structural support, and works in conjunction with the biasing element to ensure proper positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, minimizing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing element automatically returns the rod to its retracted position after deployment, eliminating the need for complex locking mechanisms or manual retraction systems. This self-service feature enables deployment and retraction functionality while minimizing the number of additional components required.
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 tools to be used in an upright position without interference, reducing user strain and allowing for easy deployment and retraction, maintaining the tool's functionality while providing a stable, independent standing mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing element disposed to bias the rod in a predetermined position. In an embodiment, the predetermined position is a retracted position of the end of the rod with respect to the end of the handle. In an embodiment, the biasing element is a spring positioned about the rod.
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment relates to a tool, including: a handle having an interior cavity therein; a grip on the handle; a rod that is movable with respect to the interior cavity of the handle such that movements of grip are translated into movements of the rod to deploy and retract an end of the rod with respect to an end of the handle; and a tool element attached to the handle. Other embodiments are described and claimed.