Multi-Blade Utility Tool With Pivot Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flexible blades tools require multiple tools for various applications, leading to storage and organizational challenges due to their single-purpose design, making it difficult for tradespeople to efficiently manage jobs and store them effectively.
Innovation Solution
A multi-blade utility tool with pivotally coupled blades that can be locked in either open or closed positions, allowing for easy switching between different blades housed within the tool's assembly body, utilizing a locking mechanism and biasing element for secure engagement and efficient storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple single-purpose tools are used for different blade applications, then task versatility is improved, but storage space requirements and organizational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple single-purpose blade tools into a single multi-functional tool body. Different blades (putty blade, drywall blade, scraper) can be attached to the same handle assembly, allowing one tool to replace multiple separate tools. This merging reduces the total volume required for storage while maintaining versatility across different construction tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool body is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate various blade types through a standardized attachment mechanism. The same handle assembly serves multiple functions by accepting different blades for different applications, thereby improving adaptability without increasing storage space requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate tools are carried and used for different tasks, then task versatility is improved, but ease of operation and efficiency deteriorate due to tool management complexity
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple blade functions into a single tool assembly with a unified handle and attachment system, the patent eliminates the need for tradespeople to carry, manage, and switch between multiple separate tools. The standardized interface allows quick blade changes while maintaining ease of operation across different tasks.
3Device complexity
If a unitary single-blade tool design is used, then structural simplicity is improved, but adaptability for different applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is segmented into a permanent handle assembly and interchangeable blade components. This segmentation allows the simple, stable handle structure to remain unchanged while the replaceable blades provide adaptability for different applications, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and application versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool transitions from a static unitary design to a dynamic configuration where blades can be attached and detached. This dynamic capability allows the same simple handle structure to adapt to different applications through blade replacement, maintaining structural simplicity while improving versatility.
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
Enables tradespeople to quickly and efficiently switch between blades of varying shapes and sizes for different tasks, reducing the need for multiple tools and improving storage efficiency by allowing all blades to be housed within the tool when not in use.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing element disposed within the body and coupled to the blade engagement member
Data Source
AI summary
A utility tool with at least one blade that is capable of being disposed at least partially within the body of the utility tool. The at least one blade may swivel around an access of rotation and engage with a locking mechanism to keep the blade secure when in use and secure in the body when in a closed position.