Compact Tool Box Ratcheting Mechanism Corner Torque
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compact tool boxes struggle with efficient force transmission when applying large torque, leading to user difficulty and potential damage, especially when used in limited spaces like corners of walls due to design limitations and material deformation.
Innovation Solution
A compact tool box design featuring a ratcheting mechanism with a rotatable ratchet wheel, a switch device for directional control, and a rack system that allows for easy bit storage and engagement, enhancing force transmission and reducing the tool box's dimensions for corner usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the tool box is designed with a compact size for corner usage, then the profile is reduced and portability is improved, but the force transmission capability deteriorates and user effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the ratchet wheel's rotating axis parallel to the first direction (length direction) rather than perpendicular to it, utilizing the third dimension (width direction) for the receiving space. This dimensional reconfiguration allows the force-receiving portion to be spaced from the front end along the length direction, creating an extended lever arm that improves torque transmission without increasing the overall width or height, thus maintaining compact profile while enhancing force capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a rack made of elastic material that can deform elastically during operation. This elastic component absorbs and transmits forces effectively, allowing the compact structure to handle larger torques without permanent deformation or failure, thereby improving force transmission capability within the constrained size
2Adaptability or versatility
If the tool box is designed with repeatedly openable cover or brackets for bit storage, then adaptability is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to force transmission loss and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the bit storage function (rack in receiving space) from the force transmission path (ratchet mechanism and driving groove). The rack is removably mounted and does not interfere with the ratchet wheel's force transmission, eliminating the reliability issues caused by repeatedly openable covers while maintaining adaptability for bit storage
Solution Approach 2:
The driving groove acts as an intermediary between the ratchet wheel and the bit/shaft, providing a reliable force transmission interface. The groove's geometry ensures positive engagement and force transfer, while the rack serves as a separate intermediary for bit storage, preventing interference between these two functions
3Adaptability or versatility
If the ratchet wheel is positioned in a quarter corner adjacent to front end and first side, then the tool box can be used in corner of wall, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the ratchet wheel mounting directly into the body structure at the quarter corner position, with the rotating axis parallel to the first direction. The driving groove is integrated into the ratchet wheel itself, and the rack is mounted in the receiving space formed by the body's lateral walls. This merging eliminates separate mounting brackets and complex assemblies, reducing structural complexity while enabling corner usage
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
The tool box provides a force-saving driving effect by effectively transmitting rotational force, reducing user effort, and minimizing damage risks while maintaining a compact size suitable for corner applications.
Implementation Method 1
a ratcheting mechanism including a main body mounted in the compartment, a ratchet wheel rotatably received in the main body, and a switch device for controlling the ratchet wheel to be rotatable in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction or to be not rotatable in either of the clockwise and counterclockwise directions
Implementation Method 2
The tool box provides a force-saving driving effect by effectively transmitting rotational force, reducing user effort
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A tool box (10) includes a body (20) having a front end and a force-receiving portion (22) spaced from the front end (21). The body (20) further includes first and second sides (23, 24) and two lateral walls (25). The lateral walls, the front end (21), and the force-receiving portion (22) are integrally formed as a single and inseparable component of the same material. The front end (21) includes a compartment (211). A receiving space (251) is defined between the lateral walls and has an opening in the second side (24) or in the force-receiving portion (22). A ratcheting mechanism (30) includes a main body (31) mounted in the body and a ratchet wheel (32) rotatably received in the main body (31). The ratchet wheel (32) is located in a quarter corner of the body adjacent to the front end and the first side. A driving groove (321) is defined in the ratchet wheel (32) for engaging and driving a shank (80) to rotate. A bit-receiving rack (40) is removably received in the receiving space (251).