Dual-Socket Driver Shaft With Magnetic Storage Retainer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing socket drivers are limited by maximum torque capacity and often require multiple sizes for different fasteners, with loose sockets being prone to loss and inconvenient storage solutions.
Innovation Solution
A socket driver tool with an elongated shaft supporting two sockets, featuring a socket positioning assembly with a support member and retainer, allowing for interchangeable sockets in use or storage configurations, and utilizing a magnet for secure retention in the storage position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sockets are supported on the shaft, then socket interchangeability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The socket positioning assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: a socket support member with groove for securing sockets in use configuration, and a socket retainer for storing sockets in storage configuration. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design while supporting multiple sockets of different sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The shaft is designed with universal compatibility to support multiple sockets of different sizes through standardized engagement features. The socket support member and socket retainer work together to provide a universal mounting system that accommodates various socket dimensions without requiring separate specialized fixtures for each socket size.
2Ease of operation
If sockets are stored on the shaft, then storage convenience is improved, but torque capacity may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The socket retainer is positioned between the socket support member and the rear end portion of the shaft, extracting the storage function to a dedicated component. This allows sockets to be stored in a designated area that does not interfere with the torque transmission path, maintaining maximum torque capacity at the front end while providing convenient storage at the rear.
Solution Approach 2:
The socket retainer utilizes the axial dimension of the shaft by positioning sockets along the longitudinal axis between the support member and rear end portion. This dimensional arrangement allows storage without increasing the radial profile, preserving the outer diameter and thus maintaining torque capacity while providing storage capability.
3Reliability
If magnet is used for socket retention, then socket security against loss is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic retention system replaces complex mechanical locking mechanisms with simple magnetic attraction. The magnet embedded in the socket retainer provides secure retention of sockets through magnetic force alone, eliminating the need for intricate mechanical latches, springs, or detents while significantly reducing the complexity of the retention system.
4Strength
If outer diameter is increased to solve torque limitation, then torque capacity is improved, but user accessibility is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The design utilizes the axial dimension of the shaft to position the socket retainer and stored sockets along the longitudinal axis rather than increasing the radial outer diameter. This allows the shaft to maintain a compact cross-sectional profile for user accessibility while providing sufficient torque capacity through optimized material distribution and structural design in the axial direction.
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 efficient switching between socket configurations, maintaining maximum torque capacity while minimizing socket loss and enhancing storage convenience.
Implementation Method 1
the socket retainer includes a magnet configured to apply magnetic force to retain the second socket, in its storage configuration, on the shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A tool includes an elongated shaft and a socket positioning assembly disposed on the shaft. A rear end portion of the shaft is configured to be mounted for rotation by a hand tool or a power tool. The shaft is configured to support a first socket and a second socket. Each socket is selectively positionable on the shaft in either a use configuration or in a storage configuration. The socket positioning assembly includes a socket support member configured to support the first socket in its use configuration proximate the front end portion of the shaft, and a socket retainer configured to retain at least the second socket in its storage configuration on the shaft. The storage configuration is between the socket retainer and the rear end portion of the shaft. The socket retainer is positioned between the first socket and the second socket.