Concentric Ring Gimbal Support for Flexible Tool Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tool support systems are restrictive, inflexible, and often require overhead mounting, limiting the ability to position and orient tools of various sizes and shapes, and cannot be easily removed or replaced, leading to ergonomic issues and increased costs due to the need for multiple specialized supports.
Innovation Solution
A modular, angularly agile tool support system comprising a yoke, concentric rings, and rotation components that allow for quick tool replacement and adaptation to different tool sizes and shapes, providing multiple axes of freedom and flexibility in tool positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional tool balancers are used to suspend tools, then tools can be supported, but the system restricts lateral freedom of movement and requires overhead mounting
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into modular components: an articulated arm with multiple segments that can be positioned independently, and a gimbal assembly that provides rotational freedom. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to various mounting locations and tool positions without requiring overhead installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from traditional overhead vertical support to horizontal articulated arm support, adding lateral positioning capability. The articulated arm can extend in multiple directions along horizontal, vertical, and diagonal paths, providing support in previously inaccessible work zones.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional gimbals are used to provide angular freedom, then tools can be oriented freely, but the system becomes bulky and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The gimbal assembly is segmented into concentric rings with independent rotational axes. Each ring provides a specific degree of freedom, and the modular design allows for compact construction. The segmented approach enables angular freedom without requiring a single large complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The gimbal rings are nested concentrically, with each ring rotating about its own axis while being contained within the larger structure. This nesting arrangement provides multiple axes of rotation in a compact package, reducing overall bulk while maintaining full angular freedom.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional bearing assemblies are installed on tools, then rotational freedom is provided, but the system cannot accommodate non-cylindrical tool sections
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated arm features adjustable segments that can be repositioned and reconfigured to match different tool geometries. The dynamic adjustment capability allows the same support system to accommodate cylindrical, rectangular, or irregularly shaped tools without requiring custom-bearing assemblies for each tool type.
Solution Approach 2:
The support system is designed as a universal platform that can interface with various tool shapes through adjustable mounting mechanisms. The articulated arm and gimbal assembly provide a standardized interface that adapts to different tool configurations, eliminating the need for tool-specific bearing assemblies.
4Reliability
If multiple specialized supports are deployed for different tools, then each tool can be optimally supported, but the system becomes expensive and cluttered
Solution Approach 1:
A single articulated arm with gimbal assembly serves as a universal support system that can accommodate multiple different tools. The adjustable design allows the same hardware to be optimized for each tool type through configuration rather than requiring separate dedicated supports, reducing system complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The support system incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities that allow it to be reconfigured for different tools. This adaptability ensures that each tool receives optimized support while using the same underlying hardware platform, eliminating the need for multiple fixed specialized supports.
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
Enables the quick and versatile positioning and orientation of tools with reduced ergonomic strain and cost, accommodating tools of various configurations and sizes without the need for bulky or expensive hardware, allowing for easy tool substitution and use in diverse work environments.
Implementation Method 1
concentric rings having at least one ring pivotally connected to the yoke... one or more rotation components functionally disposed adjacent to at least one ring thereby allowing the tool to rotate within at least one of the concentric rings
Data Source
AI summary
A tool support system is disclose having a yoke; a plurality of concentric rings having at least one ring pivotally connected to the yoke; a tool fastening mechanism to secure a tool in the support system; and one or more rotation components to permit the tool to rotate within a ring of the support structure. One or more of the concentric rings can be added to the system or can replace one or more concentric rings to accommodate tools of different sizes. The invention includes a method of configuring a support apparatus and a support apparatus kit with various interchangeable parts, and parts that can be built out to varying degrees to permit the support structure to be used on numerous types of tools.