Ergonomic Handle Resilient Segment Fatigue Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ergonomic handles for tools with scissoring action, such as scissors, fail to adequately cushion key areas, leading to user discomfort and fatigue during prolonged use.
Innovation Solution
The ergonomic handle design incorporates a combination of rigid and resilient segments in the handle loops, with the resilient segment deflecting upon force application to provide cushioning and a spring-like action, reducing fatigue and discomfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid material handle loop is used, then structural strength and durability are improved, but user comfort and fatigue reduction are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The handle loop is constructed as a composite structure combining a rigid material segment (providing structural strength) and a resilient material segment (providing cushioning and comfort). This composite design allows both strength and comfort requirements to be satisfied simultaneously without compromising either property.
2Ease of operation
If a resilient material is applied only to the outer surface of handle loops, then finger cushioning is improved, but cushioning of other key areas remains insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient material segment is strategically positioned to extend into the loop portion and contact multiple key areas including the inner loop surface and outer loop surface. This localized quality enhancement ensures comprehensive cushioning coverage across all user contact points, not just the outer surface.
3Ease of operation
If the resilient segment extends across the cavity at the inner loop surface, then comprehensive cushioning is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid material segment and resilient material segment are merged into a single integrated handle loop structure. The resilient segment is formed as an integral part of the handle loop, extending continuously from the outer surface into the loop portion and across the cavity at the inner loop surface. This merging approach provides comprehensive cushioning while avoiding the complexity of separate components and assembly operations.
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 ergonomic handle significantly minimizes user fatigue and discomfort by providing enhanced cushioning and comfort during prolonged use of tools like scissors, allowing for more efficient and sustained operation.
Implementation Method 1
The resilient segment is configured to deflect upon application of a force. The resilient segment is preferably formed of a resilient material and shaped to extend into the loop portion of each lever.
Data Source
AI summary
An ergonomic handle for use with a hand tool, such as a pair of scissors or the like, is disclosed which includes first and second opposing lever members coupled together at a pivot point to permit reciprocating movement of the lever members between a closed position and an open position. The lever members may include a cutting blade or other tool feature on a first end adjacent the pivot point, and a handle on a second end adjacent the pivot point opposite the first end. The fixed handle has a loop portion which includes an inner surface and an outer surface along one side of which abuts a corresponding outer surface of the opposing lever member while in the closed position. Each loop portion is made from a rigid material segment and a resilient material segment, with the rigid material segment having a cavity open at the outer loop surface and the resilient material segment extending across the cavity at the inner loop surface.