Rotatable Multi-Tool Jaw Locking for Controlled Handle Movement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Multipurpose tools face challenges in providing controlled movement and secure engagement of tool members between open and closed positions, while maintaining a compact and lightweight design, which affects their usability and versatility in various applications.

Innovation Solution

The tool incorporates a resilient member and a tool lock mechanism with a cam surface and follower system, along with magnetic forces, to apply bias forces and ensure secure engagement of tool members, allowing for infinite positioning and preventing inadvertent opening or closing, while maintaining a compact form factor.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If a multipurpose tool is designed to be foldable with tool members stored within handles, then the tool achieves a compact form factor, but the tool members become relatively inaccessible and require manual engagement to unfold

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetool sizeVSAvoidtool member accessibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The resilient member is configured to automatically engage with the jaw during handle rotation, causing the jaw to move relative to the handle and axle without requiring manual intervention. This self-service mechanism automatically deploys the tool member (jaw) as the handle opens, eliminating the need for users to manually unfold the jaw while maintaining compact storage when closed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If bias forces are applied to control jaw movement during handle rotation, then controlled movement and infinite positioning are achieved, but the mechanism becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvejaw movement controlVSAvoidmechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The resilient member automatically applies bias forces to the jaw during handle rotation, enabling controlled jaw movement and infinite positioning relative to the handle without requiring complex external control mechanisms. The self-actuating nature of the resilient member simplifies the overall mechanism while achieving precise control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The resilient member replaces complex mechanical control systems with a simpler elastic force-based mechanism. Instead of using motors, sensors, or complex linkages to control jaw positioning, the patent uses the elastic deformation and recovery of the resilient member to provide continuous bias forces that enable smooth, controlled jaw movement throughout the range of motion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Weight of moving object

If the tool is designed to be lightweight, then portability is improved, but the tool may lack the structural strength and durability needed for rugged applications

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetool weightVSAvoidtool durability

Core Design Contradiction:

Weight of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The resilient member is configured to provide optimal bias forces throughout the range of motion, allowing the tool to maintain structural integrity and durability while minimizing weight. By carefully selecting the elastic properties, geometry, and material of the resilient member, the design achieves the necessary strength-to-weight ratio for rugged applications without excessive mass.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This solution enables smooth and controlled movement of handles between open and closed positions, secure engagement of tool members, and prevents uncontrolled opening or closing, enhancing the tool's usability and versatility across different applications.

Implementation Method 1

a resilient member disposed at least partially within the opening in order to apply a bias force to the jaw during rotation of the jaw relative to the handle

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a tool lock configured to engage the one or more tool members in the open position and to resist rotation of the one or more tool members to the closed position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 3

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS11623334B2Tool having one or more rotatable tool members

Publication Date: 2023.04.11 LEATHERMAN TOOL GROUP INC

AI summary

A tool is provided in order to facilitate utilization by users in a wide variety of applications. By way of example, a multipurpose tool may include first and second handles configured for relative movement between a closed position and an open position. At least the first handle includes an axle extending thereacross. The multipurpose tool also includes one or more tool members rotatably mounted upon the axle and foldable into the first handle and first and second jaws rotatably connected to the first and second handles, respectively. At least the first jaw defines an opening through which the axle of the first handle extends. The multipurpose tool further includes a resilient member disposed at least partially within the opening in order to apply a bias force to the first jaw during rotation of the first jaw relative to the first handle.