Multipurpose Tool Handle with Magnetic Bias and Cam Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multipurpose tools face challenges in easy and consistent one-handed operation from a closed to an open position, and in securely locking and accessing various tool members without increasing the tool's form factor or making it cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
The multipurpose tool design incorporates a handle with a channel and notched cam members, a cam follower system, and magnetic forces to facilitate smooth one-handed operation and secure locking of tool members, allowing for efficient deployment and stowage of tool members with varying lengths without increasing the tool's size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the multipurpose tool is designed to be foldable with tool members stowed within handles in the closed position, then the form factor and portability are improved, but the accessibility and ease of deploying tool members deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The tool members are nested within the handles when in the closed position, with each tool member contained inside the handle structure. This nesting arrangement minimizes the overall form factor and volume of the multipurpose tool when carried, while still allowing individual tool members to be accessed and deployed when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The multipurpose tool is segmented into multiple independent tool members (pliers, knife, screwdrivers, etc.) that can be individually accessed and deployed. Each tool member can be independently opened from the closed position through the defined opening, allowing selective access without requiring the entire tool to be opened.
2Volume of moving object
If the multipurpose tool is designed to be compact in the closed position, then the portability is improved, but the consistency and repeatability of one-handed operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A finger engagement feature is provided as an intermediary element that mediates between the user's finger and the tool member. This feature provides a consistent and repeatable engagement point for one-handed operation, allowing the user to reliably open tool members from the closed position without variability in the opening mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool member is designed to be self-opening through the defined opening, requiring minimal user intervention. The finger engagement feature works with the natural motion of the user's finger to automatically initiate the opening sequence, reducing the complexity of operation and improving consistency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tool members are made longer to improve performance, then the functionality is improved, but the form factor and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Tool members with longer working lengths are nested within the handles when not in use. The handles are sized to accommodate the full length of the tool members, allowing the tool members to extend beyond the handle ends when deployed. This nesting arrangement enables long tool members to be carried in a compact form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool members transition from a retracted state within the handle to an extended state beyond the handle ends. This dimensional transition allows the tool members to achieve their full operational length only when needed, maintaining a compact form factor during carry while providing extended functionality during use.
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 design enhances the accessibility, versatility, and ruggedness of the multipurpose tool by enabling consistent and repeatable one-handed operation, secure tool member deployment, and efficient use of space, while preventing inadvertent opening or closing.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet configured to exert a magnetic force on at least one tool member so as to bias the at least one tool member into a closed position
Data Source
AI summary
A multipurpose tool and components thereof are provided in order to facilitate utilization of the multipurpose tool by users in a wide variety of applications. A multipurpose tool may include first and second handles configured for relative movement between a closed position and an open position. The multipurpose tool may also include a plurality of tool members. One or more of the plurality of tool members are carried by and foldable into the first handle. Similarly, one or more of the plurality of tool members are carried by and foldable into the second handle. The multipurpose tool may further include a first magnet carried by the first handle. The first magnet is configured to exert a magnetic force that biases the first and second handles into the closed position.