Co-Molded Jaw Reaching Tool With Foldable Hinge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reaching and grasping tools face challenges in storage and transportation due to their telescoping poles, which are inconvenient to carry and do not fit in typical containers.
Innovation Solution
A foldable reaching and grasping tool with a hinge assembly that allows the tool to be selectively locked in an operating or folded position, featuring a trigger assembly with a rotatable jaw mechanism and a biasing member to maintain grip without continuous squeezing, and a lock mechanism for easy folding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the tool uses a telescoping pole to extend reach, then the reaching capability is improved, but the storage convenience deteriorates due to increased length and inability to fit in typical containers
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is divided into separable components: a handle assembly containing the trigger mechanism and a jaw assembly containing the gripping mechanism. These segments are connected by a hinge, allowing the tool to be folded into a compact configuration for storage while maintaining extended reach capability when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge assembly enables dynamic reconfiguration of the tool between extended and folded states. The hinge allows controlled movement and locking in specific positions, providing adaptability between operational and storage configurations without requiring telescoping mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If the tool is made foldable to improve storage, then the storage convenience is improved, but the structural complexity increases due to additional hinge and lock mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides the folding mechanism, includes a lock mechanism for securing positions, and connects the handle and jaw assemblies. This consolidation reduces overall structural complexity compared to separate telescoping and locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the hinge's position and user interaction. The mechanism self-locks when the hinge is positioned correctly and self-unlocks through simple user action, eliminating the need for additional locking components or complex control systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the jaw assembly is made moveable to improve gripping functionality, then the grip adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional actuators and teeth mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The jaw assembly includes pre-configured teeth and actuator mechanisms that are prepared in advance to engage with objects. The movable jaw is positioned and oriented to automatically engage suitable objects upon contact, eliminating the need for complex active adjustment mechanisms during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator serves as an intermediary mechanism between the trigger assembly and the jaw assembly. It translates simple user input into controlled jaw movement, providing adaptable gripping functionality through a straightforward mechanical linkage rather than complex electronic or hydraulic systems.
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
Facilitates convenient storage and transportation by reducing the tool's length when folded, while maintaining effective grip functionality.
Implementation Method 1
A hinge assembly is disposed between the trigger assembly and the jaw assembly. The hinge assembly is selectively lockable between an operating position and a folded position.
Implementation Method 2
a biasing member to maintain grip without continuous squeezing
Data Source
AI summary
A reaching and grabbing tool is provided. The tool includes a trigger assembly having at least one trigger and a handle. A jaw assembly is provided having at least one jaw operably connected to the at least one trigger to move the at least one jaw. A hinge assembly is disposed between the trigger assembly and the jaw assembly, the hinge assembly being selectively lockable between an operating position and a folded position.