Dual Axis Hook Assembly for Power Tool Suspension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power tool suspension accessories, such as hooks, often interfere with the tool's operation due to their outward extension, which can lead to unintended contact with other objects.
Innovation Solution
A dual axis hook assembly is integrated into the power tool's housing, allowing the hook to be positioned close to the tool body and oriented in multiple directions for suspension while minimizing interference, featuring a rotatable design with detent structures for flexible positioning and a biasing mechanism to secure the hook in various angular positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a hook is extended outwardly from the power tool for suspension, then the tool can be conveniently stowed on walls, benches, or belts, but the hook interferes with tool operation by contacting other objects
Solution Approach 1:
The hook assembly is designed with rotational freedom about two perpendicular axes, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position and orientation. The hook can rotate between extended and retracted positions, and orient itself in multiple directions, enabling it to adapt to different storage scenarios while minimizing interference during tool operation
Solution Approach 2:
The hook assembly utilizes dual-axis rotation to operate in multiple spatial dimensions. By enabling rotation about both a first axis (for extending/retracting) and a second axis (for orienting direction), the hook can position itself in three-dimensional space, providing versatile storage options while avoiding contact with objects in the tool's operational plane
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the hook is positioned close to the tool body to minimize interference, then contact with other objects is reduced, but the hook's ability to suspend the tool effectively is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The hook assembly can dynamically extend outwardly from the tool body when suspension is needed, providing adequate length for effective hanging on hooks, ledges, or rods. When not in use for suspension, it can retract close to the tool body to minimize interference, thus balancing both suspension effectiveness and operational clearance
Solution Approach 2:
By utilizing dual-axis rotation, the hook can extend in multiple directions perpendicular to the tool body. This allows the hook to reach optimal suspension points in three-dimensional space while maintaining a compact profile when retracted, ensuring effective suspension capability regardless of the available space around the tool
3Device complexity
If the hook is designed with fixed position and orientation, then the structure is simple, but the hook cannot be oriented in multiple directions for flexible hanging
Solution Approach 1:
The hook assembly incorporates rotational joints that allow it to pivot about a first axis for extending/retracting and a second axis for orienting in different directions. This dynamic capability enables the hook to adapt to various hanging orientations while maintaining a relatively simple integrated structure within the tool housing
Solution Approach 2:
The dual-axis rotatable hook assembly serves multiple functions: it can extend for suspension, retract for storage, and orient in multiple directions to accommodate different hanging surfaces and angles. This multi-functionality is achieved through a unified rotatable mechanism rather than multiple separate components, balancing structural simplicity with versatile functionality
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 dual axis hook assembly effectively suspends the power tool without interfering with its operation, providing stable and ergonomic storage by allowing the hook to be positioned close to the tool body and oriented for optimal hanging, reducing the likelihood of contact with other objects during use.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing mechanism to secure the hook in various angular positions
Data Source
AI summary
A power tool includes a housing and a hook assembly. The hook assembly includes a hook support and a hook member. The hook support is rotatably attached to the housing for rotation about a first axis. The hook member has a shank portion and a hook portion. The shank portion defines a second axis that is transverse to the first axis and is configured to rotate with respect to the hook support about the second axis.