Expandable Insert Gripper for One-Handed Channel Nut Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The positioning and placement of fasteners in building industry applications, particularly those designed to be inserted into channels, often require two hands and can be difficult due to the need to hold the fastener and place it simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A grasping and positioning tool with an expandable member that frictionally engages inserts through a mechanism where the outer diameter increases to secure the insert and returns to a normal diameter to release it, allowing for one-handed operation and precise positioning within channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two hands are used to hold and place the fastener simultaneously, then the fastener can be securely held and positioned, but the operation complexity increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool's expandable member automatically grasps the insert through friction engagement when moved to the first position, and automatically releases it when returned to the second position, eliminating the need for continuous manual holding and reducing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The expandable member dynamically changes its outer diameter between a first diameter (for grasping) and a second diameter (for releasing), allowing the tool to adapt its gripping force based on position rather than requiring constant manual adjustment
2Reliability
If two hands are used to hold and place the fastener simultaneously, then the fastener can be securely held and positioned, but the operation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool pre-positions the insert within the channel using the expandable member's friction engagement, allowing the insert to be accurately positioned before final installation, thereby reducing the overall time required for the fastening operation
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic grasping and releasing mechanism eliminates the need for continuous two-handed manipulation throughout the entire operation, reducing the time required while maintaining secure holding during critical positioning phases
3Force
If the outer diameter of the expandable member increases to frictionally engage the insert, then the grasping force increases, but the structural complexity of the tool increases
Solution Approach 1:
The expandable member changes its outer diameter parameter between two states (first diameter for grasping, second diameter for releasing), allowing the tool to achieve high grasping force when needed while maintaining a simpler configuration during transport and non-use phases
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic expansion and contraction of the expandable member allows the tool to concentrate its structural complexity only when needed for grasping, rather than requiring a permanently complex structure, thereby achieving high grasping force with minimized overall structural complexity
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 secure grasping, positioning, and release of inserts along channels with ease, reducing the need for two-handed manipulation and improving efficiency in fastener placement tasks.
Implementation Method 1
an expandable member coupled to a second end of the second longitudinal member. The expandable member can be configured to increase its outer diameter as the moveable member is moved toward the handle
Implementation Method 2
The expandable member can be configured to increase its outer diameter as the moveable member is moved toward the handle coupled to the first longitudinal member
Data Source
AI summary
A grasping and positioning tool is provided that can be used to position a channel insert within channel framing. The tool includes an expandable member that can frictionally engage the channel insert in one position of the tool and release the channel insert in another position of the tool. The tool can be used to permit single handed placement of a channel nut or similar insert into channel framing.