Biased Pliers with Encapsulated Torsion Spring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pliers can be difficult to open in tight spaces, especially when only one hand is available, due to the need to manually move the handle portions, which can lead to usability issues.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a pair of levers with a biasing mechanism, such as a coiled torsion spring, encapsulated at the hinge, that biases the pliers into an open position, allowing for easier operation with a one-handed grip and improved user comfort through ergonomic grips and a compact, flush coupler system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional pliers are designed without a biasing mechanism, then the structure remains simple and manufacturing cost is low, but the pliers are difficult to open in tight spaces and require two hands for operation
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing mechanism automatically biases the pliers into an open position without requiring manual intervention. The spring-loaded system self-activates when the jaw contacts an object, eliminating the need for the user to manually spread the handles apart, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing mechanism pre-positions the pliers in an open state before use, preparing the tool in advance for immediate operation. This preliminary action of maintaining the pliers in a ready-to-use open position eliminates the initial effort required to open them, addressing the ease of operation requirement while keeping the mechanism compact
2Ease of operation
If a biasing mechanism is added to assist opening, then ease of operation improves, but the pliers may become oversized or have undesirable configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing mechanism is nested within the handle structure of the pliers, with the spring housed inside the handle cavity. This nesting approach allows the biasing mechanism to be integrated without increasing the external dimensions of the pliers, maintaining a compact profile while enabling one-handed operation
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing force is applied perpendicular to the plane of the plier handles, using a spring that acts in a different dimensional orientation. This allows the mechanism to provide opening assistance without extending the length or width of the pliers, preserving the desired shape and profile
3Ease of operation
If a biasing mechanism is incorporated, then ease of operation in tight spaces improves, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing mechanism is merged with the existing handle structure, combining the spring assembly with the handle housing into a single integrated component. This merging reduces the number of separate parts and assembly steps, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while still providing the desired one-handed operation capability
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
This solution enhances the ease of use in confined spaces by providing a self-biased open position and smooth operation, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining a thin profile and planar design.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing mechanism, such as a coiled torsion spring, encapsulated at the hinge
Data Source
AI summary
A tool and a method of manufacture of the tool are provided. The tool is prepared by the steps of providing a first tool half having a first jaw, providing a second tool half having a second jaw, inserting a temporary sleeve through an opening in the first tool half, the temporary sleeve having an opening configured to receive an end of a biased member that extends axially, aligning the end of the biased member with the opening in the first tool half, disposing the biased member within a cavity formed by the first tool half and the second tool half, and removing the temporary sleeve.