Flexible Bolt And Nut Identifier for Compact Tool Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bolt and nut identification devices are rigid and difficult to store in small tool bags and tool boxes.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a plurality of threaded bodies with flexible connectors made of silicone or thermoplastic elastomers, featuring male and female threaded portions extending in opposite directions, connected by flexible portions with specific dimensions for flexibility, and optionally incorporating magnets for attachment and stop protrusions for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If rigid threaded bodies are used for bolt and nut identification, then structural stability is improved, but ease of storage in small tool bags and tool boxes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by replacing rigid threaded bodies with flexible threaded bodies made of elastomeric material. The flexible material allows the device to be compressed and stored in small tool bags and tool boxes, directly resolving the storage difficulty while maintaining the threaded portions' functionality for bolt and nut identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state parameter of the threaded bodies from rigid to flexible by using elastomeric material. This parameter change enables the device to be easily stored in small containers while still maintaining sufficient structural integrity to perform identification functions, thus resolving the contradiction between storage ease and structural stability.
2Ease of operation
If flexible material is used for threaded bodies, then ease of storage is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses elastomeric material as a composite solution that combines flexibility for easy storage with the capability to form precise threaded portions. The elastomeric material can be molded to create accurate external and internal threads, maintaining manufacturing precision while providing the desired flexibility for storage.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for identifying bolts and nuts can include a plurality of threaded bodies, wherein each threaded body of the plurality of threaded bodies includes: a female threaded portion; and a male threaded portion, the male threaded portion being connected to the female threaded portion; wherein the female threaded portion and the male threaded portion extend in opposite directions; a flexible connector including a plurality of flexible portions that connect the plurality of threaded bodies; wherein each flexible portion of the plurality of flexible portions has a height, a width and a length, the length being larger than the width, and the height being larger than the width so that the flexible connector is more flexible along a first plane than a second plane perpendicular to the first plane.