Modular Tool Holder With Angled Slot And Securing Pin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular tool securing mechanisms fail to provide a solid positive engagement between the handle and tool elements while allowing for easy uncoupling, often resulting in accidental decoupling risks, especially in high-force applications like surgical instruments.
Innovation Solution
A tool holder design featuring a lateral slot angled between 10 and 80 degrees, widening from top to bottom, with a securing pin channel and optional resilient engagement, ensuring the keyed element is securely trapped, preventing accidental separation and allowing controlled release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional securing mechanism like a Hudson fitting is used, then the tool allows for easy uncoupling with minimum force and dexterity, but it risks accidental decoupling and fails to provide solid positive engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The keyed element is inserted into the lateral slot beforehand, establishing a preliminary mechanical connection. The securing pin is then inserted to lock this pre-positioned element, creating a two-stage securing process that ensures both reliability and controlled release capability
Solution Approach 2:
The securing pin acts as an intermediary element between the lateral slot and the keyed element. It mediates the connection by physically blocking the slot opening, preventing accidental decoupling while allowing intentional removal when needed
2Reliability
If the slot is positioned at an angle between 10 and 80 degrees to the longitudinal axis, then the keyed element is securely trapped and accidental decoupling is prevented, but the insertion and removal require specific orientation and technique
Solution Approach 1:
The lateral slot is positioned asymmetrically at an angle between 10 and 80 degrees to the longitudinal axis rather than symmetrically. This asymmetric positioning creates a unique engagement geometry that prevents accidental decoupling while requiring deliberate oriented insertion, making the connection reliable but not trivial to establish or remove
3Ease of operation
If the slot widens from top to bottom with an entry aperture at the distal end, then the keyed element can be easily inserted and securely trapped, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The lateral slot widens from top to bottom, creating a tapered or curved geometry rather than a uniform rectangular shape. This curved/widening structure facilitates easy insertion of the keyed element while providing a secure trapping mechanism, as the widening geometry naturally guides and retains the element within the slot
Data Source
AI summary
A tool holder for a modular tool is provided in which the tool holder may be releasably coupled to a working part such as a rasp, reamer or impactor. The coupling comprises a slot closed at both extremities, and widening to an entry aperture at one extremity, into which a keyed element of the tool may be inserted, and slid to the opposite extremity of the slot. The modular tool defines a securing pin channel through its body, terminating at the entry aperture such that a securing pin inserted into the channel block the entry aperture and locks the keyed element of the tool in place once inserted.