Adjustable Bearing Crank Handle for Low-Friction Jack Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional jack cranks suffer from seizing due to metal-on-metal design, rusting, and require excessive physical exertion due to friction, with existing solutions like plastic handles offering limited durability and design flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A crank assembly with a repositionable bearing handle and adjustable axle pin, featuring multiple handle-attachment points, sealed bearings, and an optional adapter for various jack interfaces, allowing for smooth operation and adaptability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal handles are crimped onto metal crank tubes, then the handle is durable, but the handle seizes on the metal-on-metal design resulting in difficult operation
Solution Approach 1:
A polymer intermediary material is introduced between the metal crank tube and the metal handle. The polymer sleeve is inserted into the crank tube, and the handle is crimped onto the polymer rather than directly onto the metal tube. This intermediary layer prevents metal-on-metal contact, eliminating seizing while maintaining the durability of metal components.
2Strength
If metal handles are used, then the handle is strong, but the handle is open to weather elements resulting in rusting and seizing
Solution Approach 1:
The crank assembly uses a composite structure combining metal components with a polymer sleeve. The polymer material provides corrosion and weather resistance, while the metal components provide structural strength. This composite approach allows the handle assembly to maintain strength while being protected from environmental degradation.
3Reliability
If plastic handles are used, then the handle is resistant to rust, but the plastic is not as resistant to physical abuse as metal and has limited design options
Solution Approach 1:
The solution combines the advantages of both metal and plastic by using a polymer sleeve internally for corrosion protection and as an intermediary layer, while the external handle remains metal for durability and design flexibility. This composite structure allows the handle to resist both rust and physical abuse.
4Device complexity
If the handle is fixed in one position, then the structure is simple, but the operator must exert excessive physical effort due to friction and improper grip position
Solution Approach 1:
The crank handle is made adjustable with multiple positioning options along the crank arm. The handle can be moved to different positions and secured at each position, allowing the operator to optimize the grip position for their hand size and strength, thereby reducing physical exertion while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
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 solution provides a durable, low-maintenance crank system with reduced friction, enabling easier operation and flexibility in design, suitable for various applications and environments.
Implementation Method 1
one or more bearings mountable on the axle... operate smoothly... reduced friction
Data Source
AI summary
A crank assembly with an adjustable handle assembly that includes a handle mounted on bearings and on an axle such as a self-locking, quick-release pin. The pin allows the handle assembly to be removably positioned in any of a number of holes in the crank body allowing choice of high leverage or high speed during crank operation. While designed with hand-cranked trailer jacks in mind, the crank assembly can be used in various applications requiring hand cranking by suitable choice of crank interface and dimensions. An adapter at the crank interface may be used alone with a power drive tool or by hand with the crank assembly.