Asymmetric Hand Tool Handle for Natural Grip and Clamping Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clamps, such as forceps and pliers, can be awkward and cumbersome to use due to their unnatural configuration, making it difficult to achieve the desired gripping strength, especially in applications like fishing and medical procedures where precise control is required.
Innovation Solution
A hand tool articulating apparatus with elongate members having asymmetrical handles and arms, where one arm is shorter and inclined, allowing for a more ergonomic grip and increased clamping force, with locking members providing precise interlocking via tactile feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional symmetrical handles and arms are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to unnatural hand positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by configuring the first arm with a first loop at a first distance from the pivot axis, while the second arm has a second loop at a second distance from the pivot axis, where the first distance differs from the second distance. This asymmetric arrangement allows the user's fingers to be positioned at different distances from the pivot, enabling a more natural hand configuration and improving ease of operation when applying clamping force.
2Force
If symmetrical arm configuration is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but gripping strength deteriorates due to unnatural hand positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric arm configuration with loops at different distances from the pivot axis allows for optimized force application. The user can position their fingers at the specific distances provided by the first and second loops, enabling more effective muscle engagement and force transmission to the jaws, thereby increasing gripping strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dimensional variation by placing the loops at different radial distances from the pivot axis rather than maintaining symmetry. This dimensional change in the handle configuration allows the user's hand to assume a more natural position, improving both comfort and the mechanical advantage for applying clamping force.
3Measurement precision
If conventional handle configuration is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but precision deteriorates due to unnatural hand positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric loop configuration provides distinct positioning for each finger, allowing for more precise control of the clamping action. The different distances from the pivot axis enable the user to apply force at optimal points for precision work, such as in fishing or medical procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking members extending from the loops provide tactile feedback to the user's fingers, enabling precise detection of the clamped object's position and the application of controlled force. This feedback mechanism enhances precision by allowing the user to sense and adjust the clamping force in real-time.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
A hand tool articulating apparatus has a pair of elongate members coupled for articulation about a pivot axis. Each elongate member has a clamping jaw on one side of the pivot axis and an arm extending to a handle on the other side of the pivot axis. One of the arms extends from the pivot axis along a first axis over a first distance to a first loop extending outwardly from the first axis and away from the other of the arms. The other of the arms has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion extends along a second axis from the pivot axis a shorter distance than the one arm. The second portion extends inclined to the second axis along a third axis away from the one arm to a second loop. The second loop extends outwardly from the third axis away from the pivot axis.