Hand-Held Auger Tool With Acute-Angle Handle for Wrist Comfort
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hand tools and traditional power tools often require significant effort and are inefficient due to their design limitations, leading to strain and discomfort during operation, especially when used in vertical orientations.
Innovation Solution
A hand-held power tool design that positions the center of mass near the tool head, features an acute handle angle relative to the rotational axis, and includes ergonomic features such as wrist clearance and a secondary handle to reduce strain and improve comfort during vertical operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the center of mass is positioned near the tool head, then stability during vertical operation is improved, but the handle length and overall tool configuration must be optimized to maintain ergonomics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the positional parameter of the center of mass from a conventional rearward position to a forward position near the tool head. This parameter change fundamentally alters the tool's balance characteristics, enabling stable vertical operation while allowing for optimized handle length that maintains ergonomic benefits.
2Ease of operation
If the handle axis is positioned at an acute angle relative to the rotational axis, then wrist strain and ulnar deviation are reduced, but the motor housing and component layout must be reconfigured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by positioning the handle axis at a specific acute angle (e.g., 74 degrees) relative to the rotational axis rather than using a conventional coaxial or perpendicular arrangement. This asymmetric configuration is specifically engineered to align the handle with the user's natural wrist angle during vertical operation, reducing ulnar deviation and wrist strain while the motor housing is accordingly configured to accommodate this angular relationship.
3Ease of operation
If the battery pack is positioned to provide wrist clearance, then ease of operation is improved, but the battery foot angle and overall tool configuration must be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the angular parameter of the battery foot attachment, positioning it at a specific angle (e.g., 15-75 degrees from the handle axis) that creates adequate clearance between the battery pack and the user's wrist during vertical operation. This parameter optimization allows the battery pack to be positioned forward and angled to clear the wrist area while maintaining secure attachment and power supply functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a hand-held power tool including a motor housing, a motor in the motor housing, an auger coupled to the motor and having a rotational axis, and a first handle coupled to the motor housing and including a grip. In some embodiments, the rotational axis of the auger and an axis of the grip subtend to an acute angle.