Friction Ring Connector for Threaded Utility Handles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Standard threaded utility handles often experience undesirable rotation when attached to tools during use, especially in wet applications, leading to loosening and reduced productivity, with existing solutions being complex, costly, or damaging to the equipment.

Innovation Solution

A universal connector apparatus comprising a substantially-circular friction ring and thread neck, providing a snug fit over the male-threaded handle and impeding relative rotation through frictional engagement with the tool's female receptacle, even when wet, using an elastic connector material that maintains friction without degrading.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a standard threaded connection is used to attach the handle to the tool, then the attachment is simple and allows easy removal, but the connection loosens due to rotation during use

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of attachment and removalVSAvoidconnection stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a connector as an intermediary component between the threaded handle and the tool receptacle. This connector includes a friction surface that contacts the tool and a threaded portion that engages with the handle, creating an intermediate connection that prevents rotation while maintaining ease of attachment and removal

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the direct threaded mechanical connection with a hybrid system combining friction-based contact (through the friction surface) and threaded engagement (through the connector's threaded portion). This substitution allows the connection to resist rotational forces more effectively while maintaining simplicity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If additional fastening methods (tape, nails, screws) are used to prevent loosening, then the connection stability improves, but the device complexity increases and may damage the equipment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidcomplexity of attachment method

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the connection function into two distinct parts: a friction surface for preventing rotation and a threaded portion for attachment. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally without requiring multiple separate fastening methods, thereby reducing overall complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector is designed as a universal component that combines multiple functions: it provides friction-based rotation prevention, threaded engagement for attachment, and a structured interface for tool connection. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate fastening methods like tape, nails, or screws

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If the threaded connection is tightened with great force to prevent loosening, then the connection stability improves, but the handle or tool may be damaged

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidintegrity of handle or tool

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The connector acts as a mediator that distributes and manages the forces between the handle and tool. The friction surface engages with the tool to prevent rotation, while the threaded portion engages with the handle at controlled stress levels, preventing the need for excessive tightening forces that could damage the handle or tool

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameters of the connection system by introducing a friction-based interface in addition to the threaded connection. This allows the connection to achieve stability through friction engagement rather than relying solely on high tightening torque, thereby protecting the handle and tool from damage

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

The connector apparatus securely attaches and detaches the utility handle to tools in seconds, preventing unwanted rotation and maintaining effectiveness in wet and dry conditions, while being durable and cost-effective for repeated use.

Implementation Method 1

The connector material supplies sufficient friction wherein when the friction ring and thread neck combination is fitted over the male threads, and when the male threads in combination with the thread neck are screwed into the female receptacle of the tool assembly, the connector apparatus substantially impedes relative rotation between the handle and the tool

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS7686531B2Universal rotation-inhibiting connector apparatus and method for threaded utility handles

Publication Date: 2010.03.30 CONGDON JOSEPH L

AI summary

A universal connector apparatus for securing a male-threaded utility handle end into a female receptacle of a tool assembly comprising a tool, comprising: a substantially-circular friction ring; a substantially-circular thread neck attached at a leading end thereof to, and centrally-aligned with, a trailing end of the friction ring; and a substantially-circular threaded-end aperture running centrally through the friction ring and thread neck combination.