Effort-Saving Locking Pliers Asymmetric Handle Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking pliers require significant effort to release a clamped object, making them inefficient for frequent use.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a first grip structure with a fixed jaw and adjustment screw, a second grip structure with a pivotally connected jaw, and a lock mechanism with a biasing member, where the second handle's length from the pivot axis is shorter than 0.19 times the first handle's length, allowing for easy release of the clamped object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional locking pliers use a standard handle length design, then the clamping force is sufficient, but the effort required to release the pliers is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by making the second handle significantly shorter than the first handle. The second handle has a length from its pivot axis to its end that is smaller than 0.19 times the length of the first handle. This asymmetric design creates a mechanical advantage where the shorter second handle requires less effort to operate for release, while the longer first handle provides sufficient leverage for clamping.
2Ease of operation
If the second handle is made shorter to reduce release effort, then the ease of operation improves, but the mechanical advantage for clamping may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamics by using a pivotally connected second jaw and lock mechanism that can dynamically adjust between locked and unlocked states. The biasing member provides dynamic force to automatically return the second jaw to the clamped position when released, ensuring that the shorter second handle does not compromise clamping force while improving ease of release.
3Device complexity
If a pivotally connected second jaw is used instead of a fixed jaw, then the release mechanism becomes simpler, but the structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using a lock mechanism with a lock bar that can be easily moved between locked and unlocked positions. The lock bar engages with the second handle to maintain the clamped state, providing stability when locked, but can be easily disengaged for release. This simple, movable locking component provides structural stability without complicating the release mechanism.
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
The effort-saving locking pliers effectively clamp objects tightly while requiring less effort to release them, enhancing usability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member (34) connected between the first handle (21) and the second jaw (31)
Implementation Method 2
The lock mechanism abuts the adjustment screw (23) which restrains the lock mechanism (33) to the first handle (21)
Data Source
AI summary
A pair of locking pliers includes a first grip structure including a first jaw and an adjustment screw connected to a first handle. A second grip structure cooperates with the first grip structure. The second grip includes a second jaw pivotally connected to the first handle about a first pivot axis and a second handle pivotally connected to the second jaw about a second pivot axis. A lock mechanism is pivotally connected to the second handle about a third pivot axis. The lock mechanism abuts the adjustment screw which restrains the lock mechanism to the first handle. The second handle extends longitudinally and terminates at an end at a first length from the second pivot axis. A second length measures a distance between the second and third pivot axes. The second length is smaller than 0.19 times of the first length.