Modular Multi-Tool Wrench With Separable Hinge and Self-Adjusting Jaws
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-tools are cumbersome, lack modular functionality, and fail to adequately address torqueing needs, making them inconvenient for emergency repairs and limited in tool versatility.
Innovation Solution
A multi-tool device featuring a handle portion with an open-ended wrench mechanism, including a wrench frame member and a displaceable inner jaw member biased by a spring, allowing for adjustable torque application and modular tool assembly through a separable hinge architecture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional multi-tools are designed with integral non-modular tools, then the tool structure is simpler, but the tool versatility is limited and cannot be adapted for different applications
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-tool device is divided into modular tool members (wrench, pliers, screwdriver, knife) that can be independently attached to and removed from the handle portion. Each tool member is a separate component that interfaces with the handle through standardized attachment mechanisms, allowing users to configure the tool set according to specific task requirements without being locked into a fixed integral structure.
2Force
If conventional multi-tools are made compact and portable, then ease of carrying is improved, but torque application capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The wrench mechanism incorporates a movable jaw member that can dynamically adjust its position and orientation relative to the fastener. The jaw member can rotate and position itself at optimal angles to maximize torque application efficiency, allowing compact tool design while maintaining adequate torque capability through dynamic adaptation rather than fixed geometry.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional wrenches are designed with fixed geometry, then manufacturing is simpler, but adaptability to different fastener sizes and positions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The jaw member is designed as a movable component that can rotate about a pivot axis and position itself dynamically during operation. This dynamic capability allows the wrench to adapt to various fastener sizes and positions without requiring multiple fixed-geometry wrenches or complex adjustable mechanisms, achieving versatility through a single dynamically adjustable component.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring member automatically biases the jaw member toward engagement with the fastener, and the rack gear mechanism self-adjusts the jaw position based on the fastener dimensions. The system performs its own adjustment without requiring manual intervention, simplifying the user interface while maintaining high adaptability to different fastener configurations.
4Productivity
If the wrench mechanism uses manual repositioning, then structural simplicity is maintained, but operational efficiency is reduced due to repeated manual adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The rack gear mechanism automatically adjusts the jaw member position based on the fastener size and position. As the user applies force to the handle, the rack gear drives the jaw member to the correct engagement position without requiring manual repositioning operations. This self-adjusting mechanism eliminates repetitive manual adjustments while maintaining relatively simple overall structure through the use of standard mechanical components.
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 device provides a compact, versatile set of tools that can be easily carried and adapted for various tasks, offering scalable torque application, self-adjustment, and ergonomic design for efficient use in tight spaces.
Implementation Method 1
a spring member configured to bias the inner jaw member towards a closed position with the outer jaw portion of the wrench frame member
Implementation Method 2
an inner jaw member displaceably coupled to the wrench frame member by means of a sliding pivot
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-tool device is disclosed including a separable hinge architecture and an open-ended wrench mechanism. The open-ended wrench mechanism including a frame member with integrated or separate outer jaw, and a sliding and rotating inner jaw, and a spring to bias the jaws closed. Various means to arrest the motion on the stroke are presented. The hinge embodies two parallel rotational joints through positive or negative orifice allowing mechanical fastening of two multi-tool modules to be paired and locked rotationally through common means in selectable positions.