Multi-Region Drive Shaft for Different Tool Diameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive shafts for motor assemblies are not versatile enough to accommodate a wide range of tool sizes and configurations, requiring additional attachments or augmentations to engage differently sized tools.
Innovation Solution
A drive shaft assembly with multiple driving regions and an axial fixation mechanism using moveable members biased to an engaged configuration, allowing for the engagement and driving of tools of different diameters without additional attachments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single drive shaft configuration is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different tool sizes is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The drive shaft is divided into multiple driving regions with different geometries along its length. Each driving region is configured to engage with tools of specific size ranges, allowing a single drive shaft to accommodate multiple tool diameters without requiring multiple attachments or complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive shaft is designed as a universal component that can drive tools of different diameters through its multiple driving regions. The axial fixation engaging portion with moveable members provides a standardized engagement mechanism that works across all tool sizes, eliminating the need for tool-specific attachments.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple attachments are provided to engage different tool sizes, then the adaptability to different tool sizes is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using multiple separate attachments, the drive shaft itself is segmented into multiple driving regions. This integration of multiple functions into a single component eliminates the need for separate attachments while maintaining the ability to engage different tool sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple attachments into a single drive shaft structure. The multiple driving regions and axial fixation mechanism are combined into one integrated component that performs the work of several separate attachments, thereby reducing device complexity.
3Reliability
If moveable members with biasing mechanism are used for axial fixation, then the reliability of tool engagement is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The axial fixation engaging portion incorporates moveable members that can dynamically adjust their position along the drive shaft axis. These moveable members are biased by spring mechanisms to automatically engage with tools of different diameters, providing reliable axial fixation while adapting to varying tool sizes without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing mechanism automatically positions the moveable members to engage with tools of different diameters without requiring external control or complex actuation systems. The spring-loaded design allows the fixation mechanism to self-adjust and secure tools reliably through its own internal forces.
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 the efficient and secure engagement and rotation of various tools of different sizes within a single drive shaft assembly, enhancing versatility and reducing the need for additional attachments or tools.
Implementation Method 1
The moveable members are biased to an engaged configuration to engage the tools. The biasing mechanism may be moved to disengage the tool from the biased configuration.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a system to engage a plurality of tools. In the system a drive shaft and collet may be assembled to engage and disengage, selectively, a plurality of tools. User selection may allow use of a plurality of tools during a procedure or during a plurality of procedures.