Insertion Tool Grip Mechanism for Single-Handed Implement Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators face difficulties in simultaneously holding a guide tube and operating an implement controller while performing inspections or repairs in confined spaces like gas turbine engines, leading to instability and unclear images due to the challenge of controlling three devices with two hands.
Innovation Solution
An insertion tool with a grip mechanism that secures an implement to a handle, allowing single-handed operation, featuring a grip actuator that fixes the implement to the handle, and optionally includes a foot or voice-activated control for hands-free operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an operator holds both the guide tube and implement simultaneously, then control stability is improved, but the ability to operate the implement controller is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The implement is merged with the guide tube through a mechanical coupling system. The implement includes a connector that engages with the guide tube handle, creating a unified tool assembly that can be held with one hand while the other hand operates the controller.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide tube handle is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a structural support for the guide tube and as a mounting platform for the implement connector. This universal design allows the same component to fulfill multiple functions without requiring separate holding mechanisms.
2Productivity
If three devices (guide tube, implement, controller) are controlled simultaneously with two hands, then operational completeness is improved, but control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the guide tube and implement into a single integrated assembly through the connector mechanism, the system reduces the number of separate devices from three to two (integrated tool + controller), enabling precise control without sacrificing operational completeness.
3Reliability
If the implement is securely attached to the handle, then operational stability is improved, but the ability to quickly detach and reposition is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector between the implement and handle employs a dynamic locking mechanism that can quickly transition between locked and unlocked states. This dynamic design allows the implement to be securely attached during operation for stability, yet rapidly detached when repositioning is needed, balancing both requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
An insertion tool (102) with an implement gripping mechanism is provided. The insertion tool (102) includes an elongated section (106) defining an implement path (108) extending from a proximal end (110) to a distal end (112), a handle (104) coupled to the proximal end (110) of the elongated section (106), a grip mechanism (132) coupled to the handle (104) and configured to selectively secure an implement (116) inserted into the implement path (108) through the handle (104), and a grip actuator (134) operable to cause the grip mechanism (132) to secure the implement (116) to the handle (104).