Boat Propeller Wrench with Embedded Metallic Insert
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current propeller wrenches are difficult to use due to their inability to securely grip the propeller nut, often leading to stripping or misshaping under excessive force, and lack a tethering feature to prevent loss when used over water.
Innovation Solution
A boat motor wrench with a metallic insert in a polymer body, featuring a stainless steel hexagonal socket and a tethering mechanism to secure the wrench to the boat or user, providing leverage and corrosion resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a polymer wrench is used for propeller servicing, then the wrench can be molded into precise configurations and is cost-effective, but the polymer becomes misshapen and stripped under excessive force during nut removal or installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining a polymer body with an embedded metal insert. The polymer provides ease of molding and corrosion resistance, while the metal insert (stainless steel or other corrosion-resistant alloy) provides the necessary strength and hardness to grip the propeller nut without stripping. This composite structure resolves the contradiction between manufacturability and strength.
2Strength
If a metal ring member is added to the outer profile of the socket portion, then misshaping of the socket is prevented, but the wrench still becomes lost when dropped in water due to lack of tethering facility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a tethering feature (eyelet or loop) into the wrench handle, making the tool multi-functional. The tethering facility serves both as a safety feature to prevent loss over water and as a retrieval mechanism. This additional function addresses the reliability concern without compromising the structural integrity provided by the metal insert.
3Device complexity
If a standard wrench is used for propeller nut removal, then the wrench structure is simple, but the wrench is difficult to insert into the cavity and does not attain an established grip upon the nut
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by giving the wrench head a specific socket configuration with internal splines or teeth that match the propeller nut geometry. This localized structural adaptation at the socket interface enables easy insertion into the cavity and ensures positive engagement with the nut, while the rest of the wrench maintains a relatively simple handle structure for user comfort and leverage.
Data Source
AI summary
A boat motor propeller wrench with metallic motor nut fastener is described. The wrench includes a polymer handle including a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the second end including a tethering aperture. The wrench also includes a socket formed as one piece with the handle and extending from the first end of the handle substantially perpendicular thereto, the socket defining an aperture. The wrench further includes a metallic insert disposed within the aperture of the socket.