Multi-Tool Nested Screwdriver and Tire Repair Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-tools are often bulky and expensive due to their broad range of applications, lacking specificity and efficiency for specialized tasks like bicycle repair.
Innovation Solution
A multi-tool design featuring a tire repair tool with a conical tip and a hexalobular internal screwdriver, where the tire repair tool is rotatable and mechanically engaged with the screwdriver, allowing for compact storage and simultaneous operation of both tools for bicycle maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-tool includes a wide variety of individual tools for broad applications, then versatility is improved, but device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing the distal end portion of the first individual tool (tire repair tool) inside the distal end portion of the second individual tool (screwdriver). This nested configuration allows multiple tools to occupy the same spatial envelope, significantly reducing the overall device size while maintaining access to both tools during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple individual tools (tire repair tool, screwdrivers, pliers, bottle opener) into a single integrated multi-tool device. By merging these separate functions into one device with common structural elements and shared storage space, the patent achieves versatility without proportionally increasing size or cost.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-tool includes more individual tools, then versatility is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs individual tools with universal features that serve multiple purposes. For example, the hollow tube of the tire repair tool serves as both a structural component and storage space for plugs, while the common body structure houses multiple screwdrivers and tools. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of separate components needed, lowering manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
By nesting tools within each other, the patent reduces the total material required for manufacturing. The nested configuration eliminates the need for separate housing for each tool, reducing material costs and assembly complexity while maintaining access to all individual tools.
3Volume of moving object
If individual tools are mechanically engaged when closed, then compactness is improved, but tool operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic elements including hinges that allow individual tools to rotate between closed and open positions, and threaded connections that enable the tire repair tool to be screwed onto the hexalobular internal screwdriver. These dynamic mechanisms provide simple, intuitive operation while achieving compact nesting when tools are closed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the multi-tool into independently operable individual tools, each with its own hinge and rotation mechanism. This segmentation allows each tool to be opened and closed independently without affecting others, simplifying operation despite the compact nested configuration. The mechanical engagement features (conical tip in recess, threaded connection) provide automatic alignment and engagement.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-tool includes a plurality of individual tools such as four individual hex-head screwdrivers, a hexalobular internal screwdriver, and a tire repair tool, each of the individual tools rotatably coupled to a main body of the multi-tool. A distal portion of the hexalobular internal screwdriver may be nested within a proximal portion of the tire repair tool. When the multi-tool is in a closed configuration, a distal end of the tire repair tool may be located inside a distal end of a largest one of the hex-head screwdrivers.