Pivoting Chain Tool With Interlocking Recess And Rib
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional chain tools are bulky and difficult to operate single-handedly due to the lack of a securing mechanism between the plate-shaped members, which causes them to separate during use.
Innovation Solution
A portable chain tool with two pivotally connected plate-shaped members, each featuring a hook portion for inserting into a chain link, an opening for engagement with the other member, a recess, and a guide groove with a protruding rib that secures the members together, allowing for single-handed operation by preventing separation during use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If two plate-shaped members are pivotally connected via openings only without any securing structure, then the tool is compact and portable, but the two plate-shaped members tend to separate from each other in the assembled state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetric features (protruding portion on one member, recess in the other) within the otherwise symmetric opening engagement system. This asymmetric pairing creates a secure, non-separable connection while maintaining the compact folded configuration, resolving the contradiction between portability and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The protruding portion and recess form a nested engagement system where one feature fits into the other. This nesting mechanism ensures the plate-shaped members remain securely connected in the folded state without requiring additional external securing structures, thus maintaining compactness while improving stability.
2Ease of operation
If a securing structure is added between the openings of the two plate-shaped members, then the members can be securely engaged for single-handed operation, but the tool becomes bulkier and less portable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the securing function with the existing opening structure by incorporating the protruding portion and recess directly into the openings. This integration eliminates the need for separate securing structures, enabling secure single-handed operation while maintaining the tool's compact and portable form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The opening structure serves multiple functions: it allows pivotal connection between members, provides a securing mechanism through the protruding-recess engagement, and maintains compactness when folded. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between ease of operation and portability.
3Weight of moving object
If the two plate-shaped members are made lightweight for portability, then the tool is easy to carry, but the members may lack sufficient strength to securely hold and manipulate chain components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies using metal material for the plate-shaped members, which provides high strength-to-weight ratio. This material selection enables the members to be lightweight for portability while simultaneously possessing sufficient strength to securely hold and manipulate chain components during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A chain tool has two members each having a first edge formed with an opening to be engaged with the opening of the other member so that the two members can be pivoted with respect to each other. Each member has an opposite second edge provided with a recess and also has a guide groove in communication with the recess and the corresponding opening, wherein the recess is lightly deeper than the guide groove. Each member further has a rib extending along the corresponding first edge and projecting into the corresponding opening to form a protruding portion. When the openings of the two members are brought into engagement, the protruding portion of each member is moved along the guide groove of the other member into engagement in the recess of the other member.