Directional Drill Accessory Sockets for Stable Tool-Less Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Directional drills require a variety of accessories for different jobs, but existing solutions lack versatility and stability in mounting these accessories, particularly for heavy loads like water tanks and toolboxes.
Innovation Solution
The directional drill incorporates two spaced accessory connection sockets with tool-less connection mechanisms, such as pin, latch, or wing nut systems, allowing for secure and easy attachment of accessories like trays and hitches, enabling the drill to carry and move its own trailer on-site.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mounting solutions are used for accessories, then the directional drill can carry accessories, but the mounting lacks stability and requires tools for attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: a socket mounted on the drill frame and a corresponding attachment on the accessory. This segmentation allows the socket to remain fixed and stable while the accessory can be easily attached and detached through simple insertion and locking actions, resolving the contradiction between mounting stability and attachment convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system transitions from a static, tool-required attachment to a dynamic, tool-less system. The spring-loaded latch mechanism automatically engages when the accessory is inserted and can be easily released by pressing a release button, enabling quick changes while maintaining secure mounting during operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple accessories are needed for different jobs, then the directional drill can handle various tasks, but the complexity of managing and switching accessories increases
Solution Approach 1:
The socket is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple types of accessories (trays, hitches, water tanks, toolboxes) through a single standardized mounting mechanism. This universality allows the directional drill to handle various jobs with different accessories without requiring multiple specialized mounting systems, thereby increasing versatility while keeping the mounting system simple.
3Strength
If heavy accessories like water tanks and toolboxes are mounted, then the directional drill can carry heavy loads, but the mounting mechanism must be sufficiently strong and secure
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded latch mechanism provides automatic engagement and secure locking when heavy accessories are inserted, ensuring strong mounting capability. The release button enables quick detachment even of heavy loads, maintaining ease of operation while supporting high load capacities through the robust spring mechanism and reinforced socket design.
Data Source
AI summary
A directional drill and associated methods are disclosed. In one example, the directional drill includes two accessory connection sockets spaced apart on a rear end of the drill frame. In selected examples, the accessory connection sockets including a tool-less connection mechanism for optional securing of an accessory.