Multi-Implement Tool Pivot Alignment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-implement tools face challenges in automatically rotationally aligning implements or implement holders with the chuck when transitioning between retracted and in-use positions, particularly in achieving bi-directional rotation-locking mechanisms for efficient torque transmission.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a pivot-inducing deflector and a bi-directional rotation-locking mechanism, allowing implements to pivotally align with the chuck's torque transmitting section as they move from retracted to in-use positions, enabling selective rotation in either direction while preventing rotation in the opposite direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If implements are made movable between retracted and in-use positions, then versatility and compactness are improved, but rotational alignment with the chuck becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot-inducing deflector is positioned to engage the implement holder before the implement reaches its final in-use position, preliminarily initiating the rotational alignment process. This ensures that by the time the implement is fully extended, it is already properly oriented for torque transmission through the chuck.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot-inducing deflector acts as an intermediary element between the implement holder and the chuck. It provides a contact surface that guides and forces the implement holder into the correct rotational position, mediating the alignment process without requiring direct intervention from the user.
2Reliability
If a rotation-locking mechanism is added, then torque transmission reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation-locking mechanism is merged with the existing ratchet mechanism of the power drill. The bi-directional rotation-locking mechanism utilizes the same structural elements and motion paths as the ratchet mechanism, allowing torque transmission in both clockwise and counter-clockwise directions without requiring separate locking components for each direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The ratchet mechanism is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides the primary rotation-locking function for torque transmission, and simultaneously serves as the bi-directional rotation-locking mechanism when combined with the pivot-inducing deflector. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components.
3Ease of operation
If implements are automatically rotationally aligned, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot-inducing deflector employs asymmetric geometry with a curved surface that does not possess rotational symmetry. This asymmetric shape ensures that the implement holder can only assume one specific rotational position when engaged with the deflector, providing automatic alignment without requiring high-precision manufacturing tolerances. The asymmetric contact surface guides the implement holder into the correct orientation through geometric constraint rather than precision fitting.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 1A
Figure 2
AI summary
A multi-implement tool comprises chuck having an implement receiving opening is rotatably mounted on a housing with a rotation-locking mechanism interposed therebetween. Implements are retained within the housing each for pivotal movement between an unaligned pivotal orientation whereat the shank of the implement is pivotally unaligned with an implement-receiving opening and an aligned pivotal orientation whereat the shank of the implement is pivotally aligned with the implement-receiving opening, and for longitudinal movement between a retracted position and an in-use position. A pivot -inducing deflector is disposed in laterally spaced relation from the pivot axis of the implement. As the implement is moved from its retracted position to its in-use position, deflection of the deflector receiving portion of the implement by the pivot-inducing deflector causes the implement to pivot from the unaligned pivotal orientation to the aligned pivotal orientation, to thereby permit the chuck to engage the implement in torque transmitting relation.