Umbrella Pole Holder with Deflecting Tabs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing umbrella holders lack stability and robustness, especially in windy conditions or on uneven terrains, making them ineffective for securely holding umbrellas.
Innovation Solution
A pole socket apparatus comprising a socket body with internal threading, an insert with external threading and a plurality of tabs that deflect inward as the insert is screwed into the socket, and a cap that covers the upper opening, providing a secure and adjustable mechanism for holding umbrella poles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing umbrella holders are used, then the structure is simple, but the stability and robustness are insufficient in windy conditions or on uneven terrains
Solution Approach 1:
The pole socket is divided into multiple functional components: a socket body for ground insertion, an insert with tabs for pole engagement, and a cap for sealing. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The insert includes flexible tabs that can deflect to accommodate poles of varying diameters. These tabs dynamically adjust their position to grip the pole securely, providing adaptability without requiring a complex adjustable mechanism
2Strength
If a secure grip mechanism is implemented, then the holding strength improves, but the ease of operation for insertion and removal decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The tabs are designed with curved surfaces that conform to the cylindrical shape of the pole. This curvature allows the tabs to flex inward during insertion and then spring back to provide a secure grip, enabling strong holding force without difficult installation
Solution Approach 2:
The tabs automatically adjust their grip force based on the pole diameter and insertion depth. As the insert is screwed into the socket body, the tabs are compressed and spring back to contact the pole, creating a self-adjusting secure connection without requiring additional fastening operations
3Adaptability or versatility
If the insert is made discontinuous with tabs, then the adaptability to various pole diameters improves, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tabs are designed with specific geometric parameters including angle, length, and thickness that allow them to flex within a controlled range. By optimizing these parameters, the tabs can accommodate a range of pole diameters while maintaining manufacturing feasibility and consistent performance
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 apparatus provides a secure, efficient, and easy-to-use solution for supporting umbrella poles, resisting weather conditions while allowing easy removal and storage, with the tabs offering adjustable grip to accommodate poles of varying diameters.
Implementation Method 1
the plurality of tabs are configured to deflect inwards as the insert is screwed into the socket body
Implementation Method 2
an insert including external threading and a plurality of tabs, where the insert is configured to be screwed into the socket body through the engagement of the external threading with the internal threading
Implementation Method 3
the plurality of tabs expand when the insert is unscrewed from the socket body
Data Source
AI summary
A pole holder apparatus is provided. The apparatus may include a socket, an insert, and a cap. The insert may be configured to screw into the socket, and the cap may be configured to selectively cover an upper opening of the insert and remain coupled to the insert, even when in an open position. The insert may include a plurality of tabs configured to engage an inserted pole. In some examples, when the insert is screwed into the socket, tabs of the insert are deflected inward to hold an inserted pole in place. The insert may be screwed in a first amount to accommodate a pole having a first diameter, and it may be screwed in further to accommodate a pole having a second, lesser diameter. In other examples, an insert may include a friction-fit insert configured to adapt to a variety of sockets and pole sizes.