Non-conductive Magnetic Retrieval Tool with Adjustable Linkage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional retrieval tools lack versatility and often conduct electricity, making them unsuitable for high-voltage applications and limiting their use to only retrieving objects.

Innovation Solution

A non-conductive magnetic retrieval tool with an adjustable linkage assembly, comprising interconnected links with frustoconical and round sections, allowing for adjustable length and orientation, and featuring a magnet and socket portion for torque application, constructed from non-conductive materials to prevent electrical conduction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional retrieval tools are used, then they can retrieve objects effectively, but they conduct electricity making them unsuitable for high-voltage applications

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesafety in high-voltage applicationsVSAvoidelectrical conduction
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the material parameter of the retrieval tool from conductive metal to non-conductive materials (such as plastic or composite materials), fundamentally altering the electrical conductivity parameter to eliminate the harmful effect of electrical conduction while maintaining the tool's mechanical functionality for retrieving objects in high-voltage environments

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs composite materials that combine non-conductive properties with sufficient mechanical strength and magnetic retention capabilities, creating a material composition that simultaneously prevents electrical conduction while enabling the tool to function effectively in both retrieval and torque application tasks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional retrieval tools are used, then they have simple construction, but they lack versatility and are used only for retrieving objects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional versatilityVSAvoidtool structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple functions into a single tool by combining a magnet for retrieving ferromagnetic objects with a socket portion for applying torque to fasteners, and a linkage assembly that enables both retrieval and torque application capabilities, allowing one tool to perform multiple tasks that previously required separate tools

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges previously separate functions (object retrieval and torque application) into a single integrated tool structure, where the linkage assembly can be configured to accommodate both a magnet for pickup and a socket for torque application, reducing the number of tools needed in high-voltage applications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If fixed linkage retrieval tools are used, then they have simple structure, but they cannot adjust to different orientations and positions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustable orientationVSAvoidlinkage structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the static, fixed linkage structure into a dynamic, adjustable linkage system that can change its configuration and orientation according to the user's needs, allowing the tool to adapt to different working positions and angles while maintaining structural integrity through interconnected joints

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

The tool provides safe, versatile operation in high-voltage environments, enabling effective magnetic pickup and torque application to remote work pieces while preventing electrical conduction, enhancing usability and safety.

Implementation Method 1

a terminal link coupled to the mid-link and including a magnet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS11224966B2Non-conductive magnetic retrieval tool
Publication Date: 2022.01.18 SNAP ON INC
  • US11224966B2 patent drawing
  • US11224966B2 patent drawing
  • US11224966B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A non-retrieval tool with a magnet connected a handle by a linkage assembly. The linkage assembly can be adjustable to maintain an orientation or position based on manipulation of a user, and can be made of a non-conductive material to safely operate in electrical applications. In some embodiments, the tool can include a socket portion near the magnet to apply torque to work pieces.