Adjustable Tool Extender Spring Biasing Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wrench extensions are limited in their ability to automatically adjust length during use, often requiring user intervention and can bind or break due to design constraints, leading to inefficiency and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable tool extender with a sleeve and extension member, where the extension member has a biasing mechanism, such as a coil or tapered spring, to automatically adjust length between fully extended and retracted positions, and a polygonal shape to minimize binding, along with a crimped end and pin for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a solid cylindrical extension is used, then the structure is simple and strong, but the extension cannot automatically adjust length and requires changing extensions when distance changes
Solution Approach 1:
The extension is divided into an outer member and an inner member that can slide relative to each other, allowing the inner member to extend or retract independently while maintaining structural simplicity of individual components
Solution Approach 2:
The extension transitions from a static solid cylindrical structure to a dynamic telescopic structure where the inner member can move axially within the outer member, enabling automatic length adjustment based on fastener position changes
2Adaptability or versatility
If a telescopic extension with spring is used, then automatic length adjustment is enabled, but the extension length is limited due to spring space requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The inner member is nested within the outer member in a telescopic arrangement, allowing significant extension length while minimizing the retracted profile and space required for the biasing mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing mechanism uses axial compression of the spring rather than radial expansion, allowing the spring to be seated in a compact axial space within the outer member rather than requiring radial space
3Volume of moving object
If outer member and inner member have similar diameters, then the structure is compact, but the extension binds or locks up during use
Solution Approach 1:
The inner member features a reduced diameter intermediate section that creates a clearance gap relative to the outer member, providing localized lubrication pathways and preventing binding while maintaining compact overall dimensions
4Adaptability or versatility
If incremental adjustment with detents and latch is used, then only one extension is needed, but continuous user adjustment is required which takes significant time and effort
Solution Approach 1:
The extension automatically self-adjusts to the required length through the biasing mechanism that pushes the inner member outward, eliminating the need for manual user adjustment while maintaining adaptability to different fastener positions
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
Enables quick and effortless adjustment of the extension length, reduces torque applied during use, and prevents binding, thereby enhancing usability and extending tool life.
Implementation Method 1
a bias member seated in the receptacle and an end disposed in the cavity, wherein the bias member biases the extension member outwardly from the sleeve to the fully extended position
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable tool extender includes a sleeve defining a receptacle and an extension member having a first end and a second end, wherein the second end defines a cavity and is slidable within the receptacle of the sleeve. The extender also includes a bias member seated in the receptacle and an end disposed in the cavity for biasing the extension member outwardly from the sleeve to a fully extended position.