Coupled Tool Cartridge Structure for Ergonomic Multi-Cartridge Carrying

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tool cartridges for processing machines are inconvenient for operators as they require carrying multiple cartridges individually, leading to high finger load and injury risk due to their weight.

Innovation Solution

A tool cartridge with a first coupling device that can be coupled to a second complementary device, allowing multiple cartridges to be connected and carried together, featuring a hook-shaped configuration for easy coupling and a plastic base body for reduced weight and ergonomic handling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple tool cartridges are carried individually by their handles, then each cartridge can be securely held, but the finger load becomes very high and injury risk increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure holding of cartridgeVSAvoidfinger load and injury risk

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple tool cartridges into a single transport unit by providing coupling devices that connect multiple cartridges together. The first coupling device on one cartridge connects to the second coupling device on another cartridge, forming a combined assembly that can be carried as one unit, thereby distributing the weight and reducing finger load while maintaining secure holding.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of operation

If a hook-shaped coupling device is used, then coupling of tool cartridges becomes very easy, but the structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of couplingVSAvoidcoupling device structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling system is segmented into two complementary parts: a first coupling device with a hook-shaped element and a second coupling device with a corresponding receiver. This segmentation allows each part to have a simple, specialized geometry that enables easy coupling through basic hook-and-receiver engagement, while the overall system remains relatively simple despite the added functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Volume of moving object

If tool cartridges are coupled in a compact manner, then space efficiency improves, but the coupling devices may collide with held processing tools

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoupled cartridge assembly volumeVSAvoidcollision of processing tools

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling devices are arranged in a lateral dimension rather than extending forward or backward. The first coupling device is arranged laterally with respect to the front side, and the second coupling device is arranged on the rear side, allowing cartridges to connect side-by-side in a compact configuration that avoids interference with the processing tools held on the front faces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS11465192B2Tool cartridge

Publication Date: 2022.10.11 TRUMPF SCHWEIZ AG

AI summary

A tool cartridge for accommodating a processing tool includes: a cartridge base body, a tool holder for detachably holding the processing tool, and at least one first coupling device configured to be coupled in a form-fit and detachable manner to a second coupling device of a further tool cartridge, the second coupling device being complementary to the first coupling device.