Hedgetrimmer Blade Assembly with Bendable Support Links

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional hedge trimmers are inadequate for cutting rounded or curved edges, particularly at the bottom portions of hedges and bushes, as their straight blade assemblies restrict flexibility and efficiency in such tasks.

Innovation Solution

A hedgetrimmer with a blade assembly that can be switched between straight and curved configurations using a support bar with pivotally connected U-shaped links and a switch assembly, allowing for adjustable curvature and enhanced maneuverability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a straight blade assembly is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the ability to cut curved edges is poor

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveblade assembly structureVSAvoidcurved edge cutting ability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The blade assembly is transformed from a fixed straight structure to a dynamically adjustable structure that can switch between straight and curved configurations. The support bar incorporates pivotally connected links that allow the blade assembly to change its shape based on operational requirements, enabling both straight-line cutting and curved edge trimming with a single device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a switch assembly with multiple links is added, then the curved cutting capability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveblade configuration flexibilityVSAvoidswitch assembly structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support bar is segmented into multiple pivotally connected links rather than being a single rigid piece. This segmentation allows the blade assembly to achieve curved configurations through the articulation of individual links, providing flexibility while keeping each component relatively simple in design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The blade assembly incorporates a curved configuration capability through the articulated links, allowing the blade to form an arc shape when needed. The curved design enables the blade to conform to rounded edges and contours, expanding the tool's versatility for various trimming tasks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Stability of the object's composition

If a rigid support bar is used, then the blade assembly is simple and stable, but it cannot adapt to curved cutting paths

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveblade assembly stabilityVSAvoidcurved configuration capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The support bar transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic articulated structure. The pivotally connected links maintain stability during straight-line cutting while enabling curved configurations when activated, providing both structural integrity and adaptability within a single system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10064341B2Hedgetrimmer with bendable blade

Publication Date: 2018.09.04 BLACK & DECKER CORP

AI summary

A hedgetrimmer having a blade assembly that converts between a straight blade configuration and a curved blade configuration. The blade assembly includes a support bar for securing a pair of cutting blades. The support bar is made up of a plurality of rotatable support links allowing the support bar to curve. A switch assembly includes a rigid wire fixedly secured to the support bar. The rigid wire extends and retracts, moving the support bar between its straight and curved configuration.