Long-Handled Tool Prop Stand With V-Leg Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for disengaging and re-engaging long-handled tools, such as the 'Drop It and Pick It Up' and 'Stop and Prop' strategies, result in tool damage, physical strain, difficulty in spotting the tool, and safety hazards due to tools being left behind or misplaced, especially for individuals with back problems or disabilities.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a leg apparatus with resilient material forming a V-shape, a leg holder, a latch, and a slider that allows the tool to be propped upright using the tool itself as the third leg of a tripod, eliminating the need for external support and reducing physical strain during re-engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the tool is laid horizontally on a surface for disengagement, then the tool can be easily placed down, but the tool becomes difficult to spot and may be left behind
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the tool from a horizontal position (2D surface placement) to a vertical position (3D upright stance) by introducing a support mechanism that engages with the ground, effectively adding a vertical dimension to the tool's resting configuration. This makes the tool more visible and detectable while maintaining ease of placement.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the tool is propped vertically against an external object, then the tool is easier to spot and access, but the tool may fall over or require suitable propject availability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the tool self-supporting by incorporating a ground-engaging support mechanism directly into the tool structure. The support leg or foot autonomously engages with the ground surface to stabilize the tool in an upright position, eliminating dependence on external propjects while maintaining visibility and accessibility.
3Loss of time
If the tool is dropped or thrown onto a surface, then quick disengagement is achieved, but the tool may sustain structural damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares the tool for safe placement in advance by equipping it with a dedicated support mechanism designed to gently rest on the ground. This preliminary configuration allows the user to simply release the tool into its supported position rather than dropping or throwing it, achieving quick disengagement while protecting the tool from impact damage.
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 device securely props up long-handled tools, making them easier to spot, reducing the risk of damage and physical strain, and enhancing safety by preventing tools from being left behind, thus improving efficiency and reducing the likelihood of accidents and legal liabilities.
Implementation Method 1
an elongated length of material having resiliency and formed in a V-shape with first and second legs extending from a vee portion
Data Source
AI summary
A device for propping up an object, in particular, a long-handled object. The device includes a V-shaped leg apparatus having a pair of legs that are spaced apart from one another but may be compressed towards one another. Leg holder attaches to the long-handled object and the two legs pass through openings formed through the leg holder. A latch is attached to the long-handled object beneath the leg holder, and a slider is selectively movable along the lengths of the two legs and when moved towards the leg holder causes the legs to spread apart and spring outwardly away from the long-handled object, and when moved towards the latch, cause the legs to be brought together and extend parallel to and adjacent the long-handled object. The slider engages with the latch to lock the device in its propping position.