Canted Pinch-Off Pliers for Confined Space Maneuverability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pinch-off pliers are ineffective in confined spaces due to their linear orientation, which restricts their ability to effectively pinch flexible tubes located in such areas.
Innovation Solution
The design of pinch-off pliers with a canting angle between the first and second axes allows for a more reliable pinching action in confined spaces, featuring ergonomic handles to reduce user fatigue and an axial mechanism with a locking pin assembly for improved maneuverability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If linear orientation pliers are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the pliers cannot reach or effectively pinch tubes in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by introducing a non-linear, multi-axis orientation to the pliers. The handle section and clamping section are arranged at angles to each other, allowing the tool to access confined spaces from multiple directions rather than being restricted to a single linear path. This angular configuration enables the clamping jaws to reach tubes that are positioned in tight or awkward locations where traditional linear pliers cannot effectively engage.
2Reliability
If the clamping section is made robust for reliable pinching, then the pinching action is effective, but the pliers become harder to maneuver in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the pliers into distinct functional sections: a handle section for user input, a medial section with the axial mechanism for motion conversion, and a clamping section for the pinching action. This segmentation allows each section to be optimized independently - the clamping section can be designed with robust jaws for reliable pinching while the handle section maintains a compact, maneuverable form factor that can navigate confined spaces more easily.
3Ease of operation
If the handle surface area is increased to reduce user fatigue, then user comfort is improved, but the overall size of the pliers increases making them harder to use in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing ergonomic features specifically at the handle section where user contact occurs. The handle portion is designed with contoured surfaces and appropriate sizing to distribute pressure and reduce hand strain during use. Meanwhile, the clamping section and medial portion maintain a compact, streamlined profile that minimizes overall volume and facilitates maneuverability in tight spaces. This localized application of ergonomic design allows user comfort to be improved without significantly increasing the overall tool size.
Data Source
AI summary
A pinch-off pliers possessing a canted orientation along the length. The pinch-off pliers has a first clamping unit, a second clamping unit, and an axial mechanism. The pinch-off pliers positioned along a first axis and a second axis, where the first axis is not parallel to the second axis. An intersection of the first axis and the second axis along the length of the pinch-off pliers creates a canting angle theta in the pinch-off pliers at the intersection. An intersection of a first plane and a third plane creates a second canting angle omega when having the pinch-off pliers positioned along the first axis and an intersecting fourth axis.