Foldable Reaching Tool Hinge Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reaching and grasping tools are inconvenient for storage and transportation due to their length, which makes them difficult to carry or fit in typical storage containers like bags or backpacks when not in use.
Innovation Solution
A foldable reaching and grasping tool with a hinge assembly that is selectively lockable between an operating and folded position, featuring a trigger assembly, jaw assembly, and a cable system with a biasing member to facilitate folding and storage, allowing the tool to be compactly stored or carried.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the pole is made telescoping to extend reach, then the reaching distance is improved, but the storage and transportation convenience deteriorates due to increased length
Solution Approach 1:
The pole is divided into multiple segments that can be folded relative to each other around a central axis. The first pole segment rotates relative to the second pole segment, allowing the pole to collapse into a compact configuration for storage while maintaining full length for reaching operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The pole transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic foldable structure with rotating joints. The pole can dynamically change its configuration between extended operational state and compact storage state, adapting to different usage scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the pole length is increased to reach items at different distances, then the versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The pole is segmented into rotatable sections that fold around a central axis, allowing variable reach distances without requiring multiple separate poles or complex telescoping mechanisms. The segmentation enables compact folding while maintaining full operational length.
Solution Approach 2:
The foldable pole mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides extended reach for various distances, folds compactly for storage in bags or backpacks, and maintains structural integrity during use. A single mechanism accomplishes what would otherwise require multiple specialized components.
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 the tool to be easily folded and stored, reducing its length for convenient transportation and storage, while maintaining functionality for reaching and grasping items.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member, wherein the cable is further comprised of a first cable coupled to the first trigger and a second trigger coupled to the at least one jaw, and the biasing member is coupled between the first cable and the second cable
Data Source
AI summary
A reaching and grabbing tool is provided. The tool includes a trigger assembly having a trigger and a handle. A jaw assembly is provided having at least one jaw operably connected to the trigger to move the at least one jaw. A hinge assembly is disposed between the trigger assembly and the jaw assembly, the hinge assembly being selectively lockable between an operating position and a folded position.