Multi-Coupling Adjustable Tool With Internal Splined Pin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable tools with splined connections often require protruding pins and springs, limiting their ability to reach difficult-to-access areas without significant modifications, and they cannot always accommodate the orientation needed to engage bolts or other hard-to-reach locations.
Innovation Solution
A multi-coupling system with a pin that uses ball bearings and splines, allowing for rotatable and locked positions without protrusions, enabling tools to be configured for reaching challenging areas by adjusting the handle and tool relative to each other.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If splined connections with protruding pins are used to allow rotation and locking, then the tool can reach difficult-to-access areas, but the pins protrude a substantial distance from the tool, limiting accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The pin is received within a recess in the wrench head, with the end cap containing the pin nested within the wrench head structure. This nesting arrangement eliminates protrusions while maintaining the rotational and locking functionality through internal splined engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism transitions from external protruding pins to an internal recess-based system, effectively moving the coupling elements from one dimensional space (external) to another (internal), thereby eliminating the protrusion problem while preserving functionality.
2Ease of operation
If springs are used in releasable coupling to allow wrench release, then the wrench can be released only when pin is held in particular position, but this results in protrusion of elements from sides or tops of wrenches
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is completely removed from the coupling system. Instead of using springs to enable release, the invention uses a pure mechanical splined pin system where the pin can be manually positioned to engage or disengage the splines, eliminating protruding elements while maintaining operational functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The splined pin system is self-contained and self-operating without requiring springs or additional energy-storing elements. The pin itself performs both the locking and releasing functions through its positional adjustment relative to the splines, eliminating the need for protruding spring mechanisms.
3Device complexity
If single coupling system is used between handle and tool, then the structure is simple, but the tool cannot be tailored to reach difficultly accessible areas in various orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into multiple independent couplings (first coupling, second coupling, third coupling) that can be selectively engaged or disengaged. Each coupling operates independently, allowing the handle and tool to be positioned in various orientations while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through modular segmentation.
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 solution allows for tools to be tailored to access hard-to-reach areas without protrusions, providing a durable and versatile configuration that can be used in various orientations, enhancing the tool's reach and usability without the need for springs.
Implementation Method 1
A multi-coupling system with a pin that uses ball bearings and splines
Implementation Method 2
A multi-coupling system with a pin that uses ball bearings and splines
Data Source
AI summary
Adjustable tools which may be linked through a plurality of couplings connected by links so that the tool and the handle and the links are rotatable relative to each other in a released condition and locked relative to each other in a locked position. The tool, the handle and the links may thus be adjusted to have the tool at any desired orientation to the handle and in a locked position in that orientation.