Modular Trail Tool Adapter Offset Arm Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular hand tools, such as shovels and McLeod heads, face challenges in compact storage and transportation due to their large assembled configurations, which complicates storage and handling.
Innovation Solution
A modular tool system adapter featuring a handle attachment device, coupler, offset arm, and clamp apparatus allows for the disassembly of tools into smaller components, enabling efficient storage and reassembly with enhanced tensile strength and resistance to bending moments through the offset arm's compression resistance mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If modular tools are disassembled into separate components, then storage footprint and transportation convenience are improved, but structural integrity and strength during operation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is divided into separate modular components (handle, head, offset arm) that can be disassembled for compact storage and reassembled for operation. The coupler and clamp apparatus enable secure connection between segments, resolving the contradiction by allowing small storage volume while maintaining structural integrity through proper segmentation with secure joining mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular components are designed to nest within each other when disassembled, with the offset arm containing the coupler and clamp apparatus. This nesting arrangement minimizes storage footprint while ensuring all components are accounted for and can be easily reassembled to restore full structural integrity.
2Strength
If the offset arm is positioned at a vertical offset distance from the longitudinal axis, then resistance to bending moments is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The offset arm acts as a counterbalancing element positioned at a vertical offset distance from the longitudinal axis, creating a lever arm that resists bending moments applied to the tool. This geometric arrangement provides mechanical advantage and structural reinforcement without requiring additional complex components.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler and clamp apparatus serve as intermediary components that facilitate the connection between the handle, offset arm, and head. These standardized intermediate elements enable the offset configuration to resist bending moments while maintaining relatively simple assembly and disassembly procedures.
3Reliability
If the pin is received by the surface defining a void to counter compression forces, then connection reliability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The void in the offset arm is designed with cross-sectional dimensions slightly larger than the pin, creating a clearance fit that accommodates manufacturing tolerances and assembly variations. This preliminary design cushioning ensures reliable connection without requiring extremely tight manufacturing precision, while still effectively counteracting compression forces through the pin.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are several examples of an adapter for a modular tool system. The adapter in one form comprising: a handle attachment device fixed to a shovel head; the handle attachment device removably attached to a coupler which is fixed to one longitudinal end of an elongate handle; the elongate handle having a longitudinal axis wherein the coupler is in line with the longitudinal axis of the longitudinal axis of the handle; an offset arm having a first end fixed to the handle attachment device, the offset arm extending from the handle attachment device and extending to a second end removably coupled to the elongate handle at a point longitudinally distal of the coupler; and wherein the offset arm extends from the handle attachment device at a vertical offset distance from the longitudinal axis of the elongate handle.