Isolative Torque Wrench with Segmented Insulation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional isolative torque-exerting wrenches face issues with the isolating layer interfering with the connection of clips, allowing electrical contact and exposure to contaminants, leading to potential shocks and damage to the selective one-way mechanism.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a wrench with two isolating elements: one with a cap and sheath wrapping the head and handle, and another with coaxial drums and an annular membrane covering the clips and insert, ensuring non-interference with connections and providing protection from electrical contact and contaminants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional isolating layer with a skirt is used to wrap the head, then electrical isolation is provided, but the skirt interferes with the connection of clips to the head, making maintenance difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The isolating layer is segmented into two separate elements: a first isolating element (cap and sheath) that provides electrical isolation without interfering with clip connections, and a second isolating element (drums and annular membrane) that protects the selective one-way mechanism. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function independently, resolving the conflict between electrical isolation and maintenance accessibility.
2Ease of operation
If the insert extends beyond the isolating layer skirt, then the selective one-way mechanism can function, but the exposed insert may contact electric elements causing shocks
Solution Approach 1:
The first isolating element (cap and sheath) acts as an intermediary between the exposed insert and external electric elements. The cap wraps the head and the sheath wraps the handle, creating a continuous isolating barrier that prevents electrical contact while allowing the insert to extend beyond for proper functionality of the selective one-way mechanism.
3Ease of manufacture
If clips are exposed outside the isolating layer, then they can connect components, but they are exposed to dust, dirt, grease and water that can contaminate the mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The isolating protection is segmented into two elements: the first isolating element provides basic wrapping, and the second isolating element (drums and annular membrane) specifically protects the clips and selective one-way mechanism from environmental contaminants. This segmented approach allows clips to perform their assembly function while being protected from dust, dirt, grease and water.
4Reliability
If a single isolating layer is used to provide electrical isolation, then safety is improved, but the structure becomes complex and interferes with component connections
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than using a single complex isolating layer, the invention segments the isolation function into two simpler elements: the first isolating element (cap and sheath) for electrical isolation, and the second isolating element (drums and annular membrane) for mechanical protection. This segmentation reduces the complexity of each individual element while maintaining comprehensive protection.
Data Source
AI summary
An isolative torque-exerting apparatus includes a wrench and two isolating elements. The wrench includes a head, a handle extending from the head, a switch placed on the head, an insert partially inserted in the head, a ring placed against the insert, a first ring connected to the head for keeping the ring in the head, and a second clip connected to the ring for keeping the insert partially in the head. The first isolating element includes a cap for wrapping the head, a skirt extending from the cap, and a sheath for wrapping the handle. The second isolating element includes a first drum placed in the skirt, a second drum for wrapping the insert, and an annular membrane extending from the first drum to the second drum for covering the ring and the clips.