Adjustable Spanner Jaw Alignment via Asymmetric Slide Block Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable wrenches face challenges in securely engaging the retaining block with the slide block, leading to movement issues under torque, and are not suitable for large torque applications, with assembly complexities.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable spanner design featuring a moving member with a first jaw and a second jaw, where the moving member is restricted by a first fastening device and an elastic member, allowing for fixed clamping in one direction and increased clamping in the opposite direction, with a second fastening device ensuring secure jaw alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a movable retaining block is used to change wrenching direction, then the wrench can operate in different directions, but the retaining block moves relative to the slide block under torque and engagement is not secure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the movable retaining block mechanism entirely and replaces it with a fixed directional control system. The slide block is designed with a specific geometry that inherently guides the jaw in a predetermined direction, eliminating the need for a separate movable retaining block component that causes reliability issues.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of making the retaining block movable to change direction, the patent inverts the approach by making the slide block geometry itself directional. The slide block is designed with an asymmetric shape that naturally constrains the jaw movement to a specific direction, achieving directional control through the fixed structure rather than a movable component.
2Ease of operation
If a detent ball biased by a spring is used, then the wrench can be adjusted, but the detent ball disengages from the recessed section under large torque forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the detent ball and spring mechanism entirely. Instead of using a movable detent system that can disengage under torque, the patent employs a fixed geometric constraint system where the slide block's asymmetric shape inherently prevents unintended movement and maintains secure engagement under large torque forces.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a movable detent ball that can disengage, the patent inverts the approach by using a fixed geometric constraint. The slide block is designed with a specific asymmetric geometry that naturally constrains the jaw position and prevents disengagement under torque, achieving both adjustability and strength through the fixed structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the moving member is allowed to move freely, then the jaw can adjust clamping distance, but the moving member moves excessively under torque and clamping distance control is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the need for complex movable constraint mechanisms by using the inherent geometry of the slide block itself. The asymmetric shape of the slide block provides natural guidance and limitation on movement, allowing the jaw to adjust clamping distance while preventing excessive movement under torque through the fixed geometric constraint.
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 adjustable spanner effectively withstands large torque forces and allows easy assembly, providing secure clamping and efficient operation in both directions, addressing the limitations of existing wrenches.
Implementation Method 1
The first fastening device is moveable in a slot defined in the moving member, is biased by an elastic member disposed in the slot
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable spanner for quickly turning an object includes a moving member, a first jaw, a second jaw, and a grip. The moving member is movably joined to the grip. The first jaw is adjustably jointed to the moving member. The second jaw is pivotally joined to the grip and cooperates with the first jaw to clamp the object. A user grasps the grip when using the adjustable spanner.