Fold-Out Fastener Handle for Tool-Free High-Torque Tightening
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional screws require an extra tool for rotation, which can be inconvenient and may lead to improper usage or damage, and they are limited in generating fastening torque due to their size and shape, making them unsuitable for applications needing larger fastening forces.
Innovation Solution
A fastener design comprising a connecting member with an accommodating space and a handling member that can be moved between coaxial and angled positions, allowing for rotation without an external tool, with a limiting portion to prevent separation and adjustable length for enhanced usability and torque application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional screw is provided with a handling rotating portion for manual rotation, then the screw can be rotated by hand, but the screw becomes relatively larger in volume and occupies more space, limiting the rotation space and unable to generate relatively larger fastening torque
Solution Approach 1:
The handling member is disposed within the accommodating space of the connecting member, with the second axis approximately coaxial with the first axis when in the first position. This nesting arrangement allows the handling function to be integrated within the connecting member's volume, avoiding the need for additional external rotating portions that would increase overall size.
Solution Approach 2:
The handling member is designed to be movable between a first position (coaxial with the connecting member axis) and a second position (angled relative to the connecting member axis). This dynamic repositioning allows the handling member to be pulled out to provide rotation leverage while maintaining a compact integrated structure when not in use.
2Ease of operation
If a conventional screw is provided with a handling rotating portion, then the screw can be rotated by hand, but the rotation space is limited and the screw is unable to generate relatively larger fastening torque
Solution Approach 1:
The handling member can be pulled out from the connecting member to a second position where an included angle is provided between the second axis and the first axis of the connecting member. This dynamic extension provides the necessary rotation leverage and space to generate larger fastening torque while maintaining a compact integrated structure when retracted.
3Ease of operation
If the handling member is made movable between coaxial and angled positions, then the handling member can be pulled out to provide rotation leverage, but the handling member may become separated from the connecting member
Solution Approach 1:
A limiting portion is provided on the handling member and a stopping portion is provided on the connecting member. The limiting portion is larger in size than the opening at the stopping portion, so that when the handling member is pulled out, the limiting portion engages with the stopping portion to prevent complete separation. This preliminary design feature ensures the handling member remains connected while providing sufficient rotation leverage.
Data Source
AI summary
A fastener includes a connecting member and a handling member. The connecting member has a first axis and an accommodating space extended along the first axis. The handling member having a second axis is movably disposed in the accommodating space and movable between a first position and a second position. When located at the first position, the handling member is disposed in the accommodating space in a way that the second axis is approximately coaxial with the first axis of the connecting member. When located at the second position, the handling member is positioned on the connecting member in a way that an included angle is provided between the second axis and the first axis so that the handling member can be rotated by an external force to drive the connecting member to rotate at a to-be fastened position.