Bistable Reelable Composite Handle for Compact Tool Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools with fixed or telescopic handles face challenges in storage and transportation due to their bulkiness, especially in applications where space is limited, such as in boats or for multi-functional tools.
Innovation Solution
A tool system featuring a bistable reelable composite handle that can transform from an elongate slit tube form to a coiled form, allowing for compact storage and easy interchangeability with different tool heads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a traditional fixed or telescopic handle is used, then the tool provides sufficient length for leverage and operation, but the tool occupies excessive storage space and becomes cumbersome to transport
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is divided into multiple telescopic sections that can slide relative to each other, allowing the handle length to be adjusted between extended (for use) and retracted (for storage) configurations. This segmentation enables the handle to occupy minimal storage space while providing sufficient length when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle transitions from a static fixed length to a dynamic adjustable length through telescopic mechanisms. The handle can change its state between extended and retracted configurations, adapting to different operational needs and storage requirements, thereby resolving the contradiction between needing length for leverage and needing compactness for storage.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tools with lengthy handles are obtained for different functions, then each tool provides adequate functionality, but storage and transportation become problematic due to bulkiness
Solution Approach 1:
A single tool platform with interchangeable heads is provided, where the same telescopic handle can accommodate multiple different tool heads for various functions. This universality eliminates the need to store multiple separate tools, as each function can be achieved by attaching the appropriate head to the handle, thereby reducing storage volume while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple tool functions are merged into a single tool system by allowing interchangeable heads to be attached to the same handle. This combining approach consolidates what would traditionally require multiple separate tools into one versatile platform, reducing the total storage volume needed while maintaining all required functionalities.
3Volume of moving object
If a telescopic handle is used to reduce storage length, then the tool becomes more compact for storage, but the handle may lack the robustness and protection against damage needed for withstanding forces during use
Solution Approach 1:
The telescopic handle is constructed from composite materials that combine lightweight properties with high strength and durability. The use of composite materials allows the handle to maintain robustness and protection against damage while achieving the desired compactness when retracted, resolving the contradiction between storage compactness and operational strength.
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
The bistable handle enables tools to be stored in a significantly smaller volume, improving portability and storage efficiency while maintaining the ability to withstand forces during use.
Implementation Method 1
a bistable reelable composite member having a first stable form in the form of an elongate slit tube in which form the member is resiliently biased
Implementation Method 2
by the centrifugal force generated by wide swinging actions (i.e. on a pick)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
The application describes a tool (10) comprising a tool head (12) and a handle (14). An end of the handle is connectable to the tool head. The handle comprises a bistable reelable composite member (1) having a first stable form in the form of an elongate slit tube (4) in which form the member is resiliently biased and acts as a handle when connected to the tool head. When separated from the tool head, the tube can be opened out at the slit (3) at an end and progressively coiled around an axis transverse to its length to reversibly attain a second stable form in the form of a coil (7). Thus, the tool can assume a compact form for storage or transportation.