Extensible Handle Wrench With Articulated Channel Joint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hand tools with extensible handles often suffer from deformation and lack of availability, making it difficult to apply increased torque and versatility, especially when larger wrenches are not available on site.
Innovation Solution
A hand tool with an elongate rigid handle featuring a pivotally connected handle extension forming a U-shaped channel, which can be rotated to extend the handle length, lock in various positions, and rest on a bench surface for freestanding use, utilizing a pin and screw mechanism for stability and adjustability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a larger wrench is used to apply increased torque, then the torque capability is improved, but the portability and storage convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The wrench handle is divided into a base handle and a separate extension member that can be attached when additional torque is needed. This segmentation allows the user to have a compact base tool that can be extended on-demand, resolving the contradiction between torque capability and portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle length is made dynamic through the telescopic extension mechanism, allowing the wrench to transition between a compact state for portability and an extended state for increased torque application. This dynamic adjustment resolves the fixed contradiction between size and force capability.
2Force
If a pipe extension is used to increase handle length, then the torque capability is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to bending and deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The extension function is separated into a dedicated extension member with its own structural support system, rather than relying on an external pipe. This segmented design ensures the extension is purpose-built for structural integrity under torque loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension member incorporates a rigid structural framework with lateral support elements, creating a composite structure that maintains stiffness and prevents bending under torque, thereby ensuring reliability while enabling increased torque capability.
3Reliability
If the handle extension is made rigid and structured, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The extension structure is segmented into modular components (extension member, lateral support, locking mechanism) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This modularity reduces overall complexity while maintaining structural reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension member incorporates self-aligning features and automatic locking mechanisms that reduce the need for complex adjustment systems. The structure serves itself by automatically engaging and locking into position, simplifying the overall device complexity while ensuring reliable operation.
4Force
If the wrench handle is extended permanently, then the torque capability is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The handle length is made dynamically adjustable through the telescopic extension mechanism with locking capability. This allows the wrench to adapt between different handle lengths based on the specific task requirements, maintaining both torque capability and versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides increased torque capability when extended, maintains a compact form when retracted, and can be locked at different positions to accommodate various fastener sizes and torque requirements, thereby achieving multi-functionality that resolves the contradiction between force and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A hand tool is provided with a handle extension formed of a channel having a pair of side panels and a transverse spine panel. An articulated joint couples the channel to a handle of the tool. The articulated joint is formed by a pin which extends through registered “L” shaped slots in the side panels and a number one shaped slot formed through the handle adjacent its end. The handle extension can be rotated from a closed position, wherein the channel and the tool handle are juxtaposed, approximately 180° to an extension position for the application of increased torque or to an acute angle with respect to the handle. The channel may be locked in a selected position by a pivot latch, which is urged against a selected surface formed at the end of the handle.