Multi-Purpose Irrigation Tool Jaw and Cutting Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

The complexity of lawn irrigation system maintenance requires multiple tools, making it cumbersome for users to perform routine tasks such as replacing sprinkler heads and repairing PVC piping systems, as there is no single tool capable of assisting with most activities.

Innovation Solution

A multi-purpose tool with an upper and lower arm member, movably coupled with a jaw member, including arcuate inner edges, retention members, and a cutting mechanism, designed to securely hold and operate various tools like pipe extractors and screwdrivers, facilitating tasks like opening PVC cement bottles and cutting PVC pipes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple tools are employed for lawn irrigation system maintenance, then task completion capability is improved, but device complexity and user convenience deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetask completion capabilityVSAvoidtool complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single tool that performs multiple functions required for lawn irrigation maintenance. The tool includes a jaw member with inner edges for gripping pipe fittings, a cutting member for cutting PVC pipe, and a retention member for securing extractor tools, allowing one device to replace multiple specialized tools

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple tools are transported and sorted through, then task-specific functionality is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetask-specific functionalityVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The tool consolidates multiple task-specific functions into a single device that can be easily operated. The jaw member with specifically designed inner edges provides gripping capability for various pipe fittings, while the cutting member enables PVC pipe cutting, all within one handheld tool that eliminates the need to transport and sort through multiple separate tools

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If a single tool is designed to perform multiple tasks, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser convenienceVSAvoidtool structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the tool into distinct functional components: a jaw member with inner edges for gripping, a cutting member for cutting PVC pipe, and a retention member for securing extractor tools. This modular segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall structural organization and usability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11383369B1Irrigation equipment multipurpose tool
Publication Date: 2022.07.12 BISCARDI GREGORY
  • US11383369B1 patent drawing
  • US11383369B1 patent drawing
  • US11383369B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi-purpose tool configured to assist in the execution of a plurality of task associated with the maintenance and/or installation of lawn irrigation equipment. The tool of the present invention includes a body wherein the body has an upper arm member and a lower arm member. The upper arm member and lower arm member are integrally formed with a jaw member. Secured to opposing sides of the jaw member are a first retention member and a second retention member wherein the first retention member and second retention member are operable to receive an retain tool implements. A first tool member support arm and a second tool member support arm are movably secured to the jaw member. Secured to the first tool member support arm and second tool member support arm are tool members. Engagement portions are formed in the upper arm member and lower arm member.