Folding Tool Handle Latch for Compact Storage Under Load

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Solution Overview

Problem

Tools with long handles, such as bolt or cable cutters, are cumbersome to store and transport due to their size, and folding mechanisms increase complexity and manufacturing costs while potentially failing under large loads.

Innovation Solution

A folding handle system with a main handle and a rotatable handle extension, featuring a latching mechanism with a locking pin and actuator that allows the handle extension to switch between extended and folded positions, reducing overall tool length for storage and transport while maintaining mechanical advantage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If folding mechanisms are added to handles to reduce tool size for storage and transport, then ease of storage and transport is improved, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetool sizeVSAvoidhandle mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The handle is divided into two separate segments: a main handle and a handle extension. These segments can be rotated relative to each other around a pivot point, allowing the handle extension to be folded back against the main handle for compact storage or extended for full-length operation. This segmentation enables the tool to transition between compact and functional states without requiring complex locking mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Volume of moving object

If folding mechanisms are added to handles to reduce tool size for storage and transport, then ease of storage and transport is improved, but reliability decreases under large loads

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetool sizeVSAvoidhandle reliability under load

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The folding capability is extracted as a separate geometric feature rather than being integrated into the load-bearing structure. The handle extension is connected via a simple pivot connection that allows rotation but does not interfere with the load path when the handle is in its extended working position. This separation ensures that the folding mechanism does not compromise the structural integrity or reliability of the handle under operational loads.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Force

If long handles are used to provide mechanical advantage for cutting tasks, then force amplification is improved, but ease of storage and transport deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemechanical advantageVSAvoidtool size

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The handle length is made dynamic rather than fixed. The handle extension can be rotated between a folded position (reducing overall tool length for storage and transport) and an extended position (providing full mechanical advantage for cutting operations). This dynamic configuration allows the tool to adapt its size to the operational context, offering long handle benefits during use and compact dimensions during storage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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

Facilitates easier storage and transport of tools while minimizing the risk of latch failure under load, reducing manufacturing complexity and costs by allowing the handle extension to be securely locked in place, thus maintaining tool functionality.

Implementation Method 1

a latching mechanism, the latching mechanism comprising a locking pin and an actuator connected to the locking pin, the actuator movable between a first position in which the locking pin engages the handle extension, preventing movement of the handle extension relative to the main handle

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical constraint: Mechanical Fastener

Implementation Method 2

the proximal end of the handle extension rotatably connected to the distal end of the main handle, the handle extension rotatable between a first extended position and a second folded position relative to the main handle

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical movement: Hinge

Data Source

PatentUS11465219B2Folding handle for tools and tools having folding handles

Publication Date: 2022.10.11 JS PROD INC

AI summary

A folding handle for a tool has a main handle having a tool head, a handle extension rotatably connected to the main handle, the handle extension rotatable between a first extended position and a second folded position relative to the main handle, and a latching mechanism having a locking pin and an actuator connected to the locking pin and movable between a first position in which the locking pin engages the handle extension, preventing movement of the handle extension relative to the main handle, and a second position in which the locking pin is disengaged from the handle extension, allowing movement of the handle extension relative to the main handle. A tool may have first and second folding handles which are movably connected to one another.