Resilient Fuel Cell Adapter for Combustion Tool Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing combustion tools are designed to accommodate fuel cells of specific lengths and sizes, limiting the use of shorter or smaller fuel cells, which cannot be properly positioned or stabilized for efficient operation.
Innovation Solution
An adapter with a post and radially extending platforms and a resilient flange is inserted into the fuel cell cavity, allowing a shorter fuel cell to be correctly positioned and held securely, comprising a molded polypropylene structure with a flange that deforms to fit the cavity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a tool is designed to accommodate a specific fuel cell length, then the fuel cell outlet engages properly with the dispensing outlet, but shorter fuel cells cannot be used in the tool
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter serves as an intermediary component between the tool cavity and the shorter fuel cell. It includes a post with platforms that engage the fuel cell and a flange that engages the cavity wall, mediating the interface to enable proper positioning and engagement of fuel cells with varying lengths.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is segmented into distinct functional components: a post with first and second platforms for engaging the fuel cell, and a flange for engaging the cavity. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together as a unified solution.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sizes of fuel cells are manufactured for different tools, then each fuel cell size fits its designated tool, but the number of fuel cell varieties increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter provides a universal solution that enables a single tool design to accommodate multiple fuel cell sizes. By using the adapter, the tool gains multi-functionality, allowing it to accept both standard and shorter fuel cells without requiring different tool designs for each fuel cell size.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a shorter fuel cell is inserted into a tool designed for longer cells, then the tool can accept smaller fuel cells, but the fuel cell becomes unstable and cannot be held in position
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter provides counterbalancing engagement points that stabilize the shorter fuel cell within the cavity. The first platform engages the fuel cell at one location while the second platform and flange provide additional engagement points, creating a balanced, stable configuration that prevents movement or instability.
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 use of shorter fuel cells in tools designed for longer cells by ensuring proper positioning and stability, ensuring the fuel outlet aligns correctly with the dispensing outlet, enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The flange is formed of a resilient material and a thickness so as to permit the flange to be deformed as the adapter is inserted into the fuel cell cavity
Data Source
AI summary
A fuel cell adapter to be received in a combustion tool fuel cell cavity, the cavity having a predetermined diameter, and the adapter having a post extending longitudinally along an axis. First and second platforms are positioned at a first and second end of the post and they extend laterally outwardly from the post to occupy a distance slightly less than the predetermined diameter of the fuel cell cavity. A flange extends from the post between the first and second ends of the post and has at least one portion extending laterally outwardly from the post to occupy a distance, when combined with the post, slightly greater than the predetermined diameter of the fuel cell cavity. The flange is formed of a resilient material and a thickness so as to permit the flange to be deformed as the adapter is inserted into the fuel cell cavity.