Universal Faucet Nut Wrench with Segmented Hinge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tools face challenges with access, slippage, and limited torque application in plumbing applications where only a narrow clearance is available, such as under a basin for installing or uninstalling supply lines or retaining nuts.
Innovation Solution
A universal faucet nut wrench with rotatably coupled sections, featuring castellations with radial slots for engaging retaining nuts and inner surfaces for pipe fittings, allowing for an open position for installation around supply lines and a closed position for engaging nuts or fittings, along with a hinge for rotating sections and a locking mechanism for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional tools are used in narrow clearance spaces under basins, then the tools can engage standard-sized nuts and fittings, but the tools cannot access the workspace due to limited clearance
Solution Approach 1:
The wrench body is divided into two separate sections that are rotatably coupled together. The first section engages the retaining nut while the second section engages the pipe fitting. This segmentation allows each section to be compact while the combined tool provides the necessary functionality, enabling access to narrow clearance spaces under basins.
Solution Approach 2:
The two sections of the wrench are rotatably coupled, allowing the tool to dynamically adjust its configuration. The sections can rotate relative to each other to navigate around obstacles and fit into tight spaces, then lock into position for applying torque to the retaining nut or pipe fitting.
2Reliability
If conventional wrenches are used to engage retaining nuts with wings, then the wrench can apply torque, but the wrench slips off the nut due to inadequate engagement surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement surfaces of the wrench are designed with specific local geometries that match the features of the retaining nut and pipe fitting. The first section has engagement surfaces configured to engage the wings of the retaining nut, while the second section has surfaces to engage the hexagonal or circular profile of the pipe fitting. This localized geometric matching prevents slippage during torque application.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single rigid wrench body is used, then the tool structure is simple, but the tool cannot adapt to different nut and fitting configurations in restricted spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The wrench is segmented into two independently configurable sections that can rotate relative to each other. This allows the tool to adapt to different configurations of retaining nuts and pipe fittings by adjusting the relative orientation of the sections, while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure based on a rotatable coupling mechanism.
4Power
If conventional tools are used in tight spaces, then the tools can maintain simple structures, but the tools cannot effectively apply torque due to limited leverage
Solution Approach 1:
The wrench utilizes a rotational degree of freedom between the two sections to create mechanical advantage. By allowing the sections to rotate relative to each other, the tool can leverage the geometry of the engagement surfaces to amplify the applied force, effectively increasing torque output without requiring a longer lever arm that would not fit in the restricted space.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for installing or uninstalling supply lines or retaining nuts. A wrench includes a body having first and second sections rotatably coupled to each other. The body includes a first portion having a plurality of castellations, wherein a plurality of radial slots are formed between lateral surfaces of adjacent castellations, each radial slot being engageable to a wing of a retaining nut, wherein the first portion includes a plurality of first inner surfaces engageable to a first pipe fitting in the closed position. The body includes a second portion spaced away from the first portion, the second portion including a hinge for rotating the first and second sections relative to each other. The body includes a third portion located between the first and second portions, the third portion including a plurality of second inner surfaces engageable to a second pipe fitting in the closed position.