Internal Clamping Connection Assembly for Quick Tool Module Coupling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hand-guided machine tools require multiple hand movements for assembly and disassembly of handle bar parts, necessitating frequent readjustment due to wear, and have external clamping connections that are prone to contamination and wear.

Innovation Solution

A connection assembly with internal mechanical clamping elements and counter elements, actuated by a single lever, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly with reduced wear and contamination, featuring a clamping device that automatically engages when parts are plugged together, and includes a spring mechanism for tolerance compensation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If external clamping connections are used for connecting handle bar parts, then the connection is mechanically simple, but the clamping elements are prone to contamination and wear

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical simplicityVSAvoidcontamination and wear resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The clamping element and counter element are nested inside the connection part's cross section, with the clamping element positioned within the internal chamber and the counter element recessed into the connection surface. This nesting arrangement protects the clamping interfaces from external contamination while maintaining mechanical simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If multiple manual operating levers are used for clamping tie rods and engagement parts, then the connection is secure, but the assembly process requires several hand movements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection securityVSAvoidnumber of hand movements
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple clamping functions are merged into a single operating lever system. The first operating lever simultaneously controls the clamping element and the second operating lever controls the counter element, allowing both clamping actions to be performed in one continuous motion rather than requiring separate manual operations for each tie rod.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The clamping element and counter element are pre-positioned and biased by spring elements to be ready for engagement. When the operating lever is actuated, the clamping action occurs automatically through the pre-configured mechanical linkage, reducing the number of discrete hand movements required during assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Manufacturing precision

If handle bar parts are brought together and held in position for connection, then proper alignment is achieved, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment precisionVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Connection features such as the engagement part and tie rods are pre-configured with guiding surfaces and positioning elements that automatically align the handle bar parts when brought together. The spring-biased clamping elements are pre-positioned to engage immediately upon connection, eliminating the need for manual holding and adjustment during assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Device complexity

If the clamping connection is arranged outside the cross section of connection parts, then the structure is simple, but the connection assembly is bulky and harder to transport

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural simplicityVSAvoidconnection assembly volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The clamping element and counter element are nested within the internal cross section of the connection parts, utilizing the existing structural volume rather than adding external protrusions. The clamping element is positioned inside the internal chamber while the counter element is recessed into the connection surface, creating a compact integrated design that reduces overall assembly volume for easier transport.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 easy handling and reduces the risk of injury and damage by minimizing hand movements, maintaining secure connections, and reducing wear and contamination through internal clamping mechanisms.

Implementation Method 1

a spring element, which acts on the clamping element for example, can be provided for biasing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring mechanism: Spring

Implementation Method 2

The counter element can be displaceably guided on the second connection part and can be mounted on the second connection part or on the connection section of the second connection part by interposition of a spring. This provides for structural tolerance compensation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTolerance compensation:

Implementation Method 3

By actuating the clamping device, the connection parts are braceable against one another when the clamping element is in engagement with the counter element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical clamping force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS12576503B2Connection assembly for a hand-guided machine tool and hand-guided machine tool
Publication Date: 2026.03.17 FESTOOL GMBH
  • US12576503B2 patent drawing
  • US12576503B2 patent drawing
  • US12576503B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A connection assembly for connecting a tool head and a further machine module of a hand-guided machine tool wherein the connection assembly includes at least two connection parts following one another along a longitudinal axis and each having a connection section via which the connection parts are connectable to one another.