Multi-Piece Umbrella Pole Alignment and Detent Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiple-piece umbrella pole assemblies face challenges in rotational alignment during assembly, particularly with heavy pole sections and internal locking devices, making it difficult for users to align and assemble the poles efficiently.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution includes a multiple-piece umbrella pole assembly with improved rotational alignment features, such as an alignment notch on the upper rim of the lower pole section that aligns with a cross pin recessed within the upper pole section, facilitating rotational orientation and assembly. Additionally, a detent pin assembly with detent apertures and a spring mechanism ensures secure retention of the assembled configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If multiple-piece umbrella pole assemblies are used for shipping and storage, then the pole can be disassembled into smaller pieces for compact storage, but the assembly process becomes difficult due to rotational alignment challenges with heavy pole sections and internal locking devices
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment notch is pre-formed on the upper rim of the lower pole section, and the cross pin is pre-positioned within the upper pole section. These preliminary features guide the assembly process by providing predetermined alignment paths, eliminating the need for complex manual alignment procedures during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment notch acts as an intermediary element between the lower pole section and upper pole section. It mediates the connection process by receiving the cross pin and providing rotational alignment, making the assembly of heavy pole sections straightforward and intuitive.
2Ease of operation
If alignment features like alignment notches and cross pins are added to facilitate assembly, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment notch and cross pin features are integrated into the existing pole section structures. The alignment notch is formed as part of the upper rim of the lower pole section, and the cross pin is incorporated within the upper pole section's internal structure. This merging approach provides alignment functionality without adding separate, independent components.
Solution Approach 2:
The cross pin serves multiple functions: it provides rotational alignment through the alignment notch, acts as a positioning feature for the detent pin assembly, and contributes to the overall structural integrity of the pole connection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate alignment components.
3Reliability
If detent pin assemblies with spring mechanisms are used to secure the connected pole sections, then the reliability of the connection improves, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detent pin assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: the detent pin itself, the spring mechanism, and the detent aperture. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately using standard processes, then assembled into the pole sections, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism in the detent pin assembly provides automatic engagement and retention. Once the pole sections are aligned and the detent pin is inserted, the spring automatically secures the connection without requiring additional fastening operations or complex assembly steps, simplifying the manufacturing process.
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 improved alignment features streamline the assembly process by allowing users to align pole sections by feel, reducing frustration and effort. The detent pin assembly provides a secure locking mechanism, ensuring the stability and integrity of the assembled umbrella pole.
Implementation Method 1
a detent spring disposed within the upper connecting portion of the interconnecting pole portion, the detent spring biasing the detent pin within the first and second detent apertures
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-piece umbrella pole that includes first and second pole sections that are assembled into an elongate umbrella pole. The pole sections include an alignment notch and cross pin for facilitating assembly of the two pole sections. An outer sleeve includes a button assembly that can actuate a detent pin for coupling or decoupling the pole sections. The outer sleeve can also include an actuator for a tilt mechanism that angles a canopy portion of the umbrella assembly.