Foldable Hand Tool with Segmented Locking Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable hand apparatuses for working with soil and other materials are not compact enough for easy carrying, prone to accidental closure during use, and are complicated to open and fold, with issues for left-handed users and those wearing gloves.
Innovation Solution
A multipurpose hand apparatus with a T-shaped first sleeve and a second sleeve for connecting the tool and handle, featuring rotatable pins and push buttons for easy position adjustment and secure locking, allowing for compact storage and easy operation, with a design that prevents accidental closure and accommodates left-handed use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple single joint is used for folding, then the structure is simple, but the folded size is not compact enough for easy carrying
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into multiple segments connected by joints, allowing the handle and tool to fold back on themselves in a compact configuration. The connecting element is segmented with attachment points that enable multi-position folding, reducing the overall volume when not in use.
2Volume of moving object
If two joints with parallel axes of rotation are used to reduce folded size, then the folded apparatus becomes compact, but the risk of accidental closure increases during use
Solution Approach 1:
A locking mechanism is introduced that applies preliminary counter-action to prevent the handle from accidentally folding back on the tool during use. The locking element engages with the connecting element to maintain the open position and resist unintended closure forces.
Solution Approach 2:
A locking element acts as an intermediary between the handle and tool, mediating the interaction between the two joints. This intermediary component transfers and stabilizes forces, preventing direct harmful interaction that could cause accidental closure.
3Reliability
If a slidable sleeve is added to protect and reinforce the second joint, then accidental closure is prevented, but the operations of opening and folding become complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted from the complex slidable sleeve mechanism and implemented through a simpler locking element that engages with the connecting element. This separation of functions allows the folding operation to remain simple while maintaining protection against accidental closure.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the handle is made triangular and narrow to accommodate both right-handed and left-handed users, then versatility is improved, but practicality for users wearing gloves deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed with rotational capability around the connecting element, allowing it to dynamically adapt to different user preferences. Users can rotate the handle to the appropriate orientation for their handedness, maintaining versatility while preserving ergonomic practicality for glove-wearing users.
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable multipurpose apparatus including a tool, a gripping mechanism, and a connecting element, extending along a first axis between the tool and the gripping mechanism, the tool being articulated at one end of the connecting element around a second axis transversal to the first axis, the gripping mechanism being articulated at an opposite end of the connecting element around a third axis separated from the second axis and transversal to the first axis. The second transversal axis and the third transversal axis are perpendicular to each other.