Nested Cleanout Cap Tool for Variable Knob Sizes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clean out cap removal tools lack versatility in engaging knobs of varying sizes, limiting their effectiveness in removing clean out caps from buried water pipes.
Innovation Solution
A clean out cap removal device with an elongated handle and two interchangeable boxes, one for engaging knobs of a first size and another for engaging knobs of a second size, allowing for adaptable engagement and removal of clean out caps from water pipes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single engagement size is used on the handle, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot engage knobs of varying sizes on clean out caps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing the second box inside the first box, allowing both engagement sizes to be integrated into a single tool. The second box with the smaller opening can slide within the first box, enabling the tool to adapt to different knob sizes without requiring multiple separate tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the second box movable relative to the first box. The second box can slide along the handle to engage smaller knobs, while the first box remains stationary for larger knobs. This dynamic configuration allows the tool to adapt its engagement capability based on the specific knob size encountered.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple interchangeable boxes are provided, then versatility is improved, but the device becomes more complex and requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of providing multiple separate interchangeable boxes, the patent nests the second box within the first box structure. This integration reduces the number of separate components the user must manage while maintaining the ability to engage different knob sizes through the sliding mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal tool where a single device can engage multiple knob sizes. The first box handles larger knobs while the second box handles smaller knobs, making the tool multi-functional without requiring the user to switch between multiple separate tools or attachments.
3Ease of operation
If the second box is always positioned to engage small knobs, then small knob engagement is optimized, but it prevents engagement of large knobs by the first box
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the second box dynamically movable along the handle rather than fixed in position. When small knobs need to be engaged, the second box slides forward into position. When large knobs need to be engaged, the second box can be retracted or positioned away, allowing the first box to engage the larger knob. This dynamic positioning resolves the conflict between optimizing for small knobs while maintaining versatility for large knobs.
Data Source
AI summary
A clean out cap removal device includes a handle has a length of at least 75.0 cm which can be extended into a hole to reach a clean out cap on a buried water pipe. A first box is attached to the handle to engage a knob of a first size on the clean out cap to remove the clean out cap from the water pipe. A second box is movably positioned within the first box and the second box has dimensions less than dimensions of the first box. In this way the second box can engage a knob of a second size on the clean out cap to remove the clean out cap from the water pipe. The second box is biased into a first position having the second box is positioned to engage the knob of the second size. Conversely, the second box is urgeable into a second position when the second box abuts the knob of the first size to facilitate the first box to engage the knob of the first size.