Direction Switch Button Fixing Structure for Reversible Wrench

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional wrenches with direction switch buttons face complexity in manufacturing, instability in connection, and high assembly costs due to complicated structures and screw connections, which are prone to loosening and contamination.

Innovation Solution

A fixing structure featuring an elastic button-fixing device with an actuating member and restoring member, allowing for quick and stable positioning of direction switch buttons through insertion, simplifying the assembly process and enhancing structural stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the two direction control members are connected through a penetrating bore structure, then simultaneous actuation is achieved, but the structure becomes too complicated to be formed easily and manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimultaneous actuationVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the two direction control members into a single integrated structure where both control functions are combined in one piece. This eliminates the need for complex connection structures between separate members while maintaining the simultaneous actuation function through the unified design of the control member body.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The control member is designed with multi-functional capabilities, integrating both directional control functions and connection features into a single component. This universal design allows the control member to perform multiple functions without requiring additional connection structures, thereby simplifying the overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If the two direction control members are connected through a penetrating bore structure, then simultaneous actuation is achieved, but the connection stability is limited and the structure comes off after impact

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimultaneous actuationVSAvoidconnection strength
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the two direction control members into one integrated component, the patent eliminates weak connection points that would fail under impact. The unified structure ensures that both control functions remain firmly connected through the inherent structural integrity of the single piece, preventing separation during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Strength

If the two direction control members are screwed together, then connection is achieved, but the assembly process becomes too complicated and labor cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveconnectionVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the two direction control members into a single integrated component, which eliminates the need for screw connections and complex assembly processes. This merging approach maintains strong connection through the unified structure while dramatically simplifying assembly to a single-piece installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Strength

If screw connection is used to connect the two direction control members, then connection is achieved, but the screw is easy to loosen due to shaking and contamination occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveconnectionVSAvoidconnection stability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating the two direction control members into one piece, the patent eliminates screws and threaded holes that are susceptible to loosening from vibration and contamination. The unified structure provides inherent connection stability that is immune to shaking and prevents contamination pathways, ensuring reliable operation in demanding environments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 solution simplifies the structure, reduces assembly costs, and provides a stable and precise connection that prevents the direction switch buttons from coming off, extending the wrench's lifespan and improving usability.

Implementation Method 1

The actuating member possesses elasticity by means of the restoring member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS7661337B2Fixing structure of direction switch button for reversible wrench
Publication Date: 2010.02.16 INFAR IND CO LTD
  • US7661337B2 patent drawing
  • US7661337B2 patent drawing
  • US7661337B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fixing structure of direction switch buttons for a reversible wrench, in which the wrench is equipped with two direction switch buttons on a driving portion of the wrench. The wrench includes button-restricting portions and location-restricting portions relative to the driving portion. The two direction switch buttons can be inserted and arranged inside the driving portion. Moreover, a button-fixing device is provided between the two direction switch buttons, the button-fixing device includes an actuating member and a restoring member. The two ends of the actuating member are wedged into the two direction switch buttons respectively so that the two direction switch buttons are driven simultaneously. The actuating member is able to move elastically between the two direction switch buttons by the restoring member so as to connect the two direction switch buttons elastically.