Folding Multitool With Non-Parallel Hinge Axes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hand tool sets, such as wrench sets, often require multiple tools and sockets, which can be bulky and difficult to store compactly due to parallel folding hinge axes, limiting the number of tools that can be efficiently carried and used.
Innovation Solution
A folding multitool system with non-parallel folding hinge axes allows for a compact stowed position by incorporating multiple wrench sizes and types, including adjustable wrenches, and securely attaching a central tool arm to a hub for torque transfer without a locking mechanism, enabling more tools to be integrated into a single, compact device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If parallel folding hinge axes are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the stowed size is large and tools cannot be carried compactly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by configuring at least one folding hinge axis to be non-parallel relative to other folding hinge axes. This asymmetric hinge arrangement allows tool arms to fold along different angular paths, enabling more compact nesting and significantly reducing the overall stowed volume compared to conventional parallel hinge configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional parallel folding (all hinges in the same plane) to three-dimensional multi-angular folding. By introducing hinge axes at different angles and orientations, the tool arms can fold in multiple spatial dimensions, allowing them to nest more efficiently and reduce the stowed footprint in all directions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wrench sizes and tools are incorporated, then versatility is improved, but the device becomes bulkier and harder to store
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple wrench sizes and different tool types into a single integrated multitool device. By combining various wrench heads, sockets, and other hand tools onto a common folding framework, the patent achieves high versatility while maintaining a compact form factor that would be impossible with separate tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal multitool platform where a single device can perform multiple functions through different tool arms and heads. The folding mechanism allows the same structural framework to support various tool configurations, making the device adaptable to different tasks while maintaining compact storage.
3Volume of moving object
If low-profile wrench heads are used, then compact stowing is improved, but the wrenches become hard to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic folding mechanisms that allow tool arms to transition between compact stowed positions and extended operational positions. The low-profile wrench heads maintain their compact form for storage but can be deployed to full functional length during use, providing both compactness and usability through dynamic reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the wrench structure into modular components including the handle, tool arm, and wrench head. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the wrench heads remain low-profile for compactness while the tool arms can extend to provide adequate leverage and usability during operation.
4Volume of moving object
If non-parallel folding hinge axes are used, then stowed size is reduced, but torque transfer and structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric hinge configuration is designed with carefully selected angles and orientations that maintain structural integrity. The non-parallel axes are arranged to optimize both compactness and mechanical advantage, ensuring that torque transfer paths remain efficient while achieving reduced stowed dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality optimization at each hinge joint, where the hinge axis orientation, pin diameter, and mounting geometry are specifically tailored to the local mechanical requirements. This ensures that each non-parallel hinge maintains adequate strength and torque transfer capability despite its unique angular configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A folding multitool for holding a plurality of diverse tools, comprising at least three tool arms, where at least two tool arms are pivotally attached to a central hub at one end, and each tool arm having at least one tool head attached at the other end. Wherein the tool arms fold to a smaller stowed position and unfold to an extended longer operational position. Wherein each tool arm can be used either as a tool handle or as a tool arm depending on the positions of the tool arms, and which end of the extended multitool the user grasps. During use, the rotational axes of a gripping surfaces on one or more wrench heads can be oriented substantially perpendicular to the hinge axis of its respective tool arm, whereby torque can be transmitted across the hinge axes for turning the plurality of different sized rotary fastener without the need for hinge locking mechanisms.