Universal Pipe Bender Handle With Adapters for Multi-Size EMT Heads
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The cumbersome nature of carrying and storing multiple EMT pipe bender handles of different sizes for bending electrical metallic tubing (EMT) pipes, which leads to encumbrance and inefficiency on project sites.
Innovation Solution
A set of adapters and a universal modular handle that allows different-sized pipe bender heads to be coupled with a single all-in-one handle, using adapters with specific mating sections to fit various pipe bender heads and a handle with a telescoping or collapsible mechanism for ease of transportation and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple EMT pipe bender handles of different sizes are used to bend different pipe sizes, then each pipe size can be bent with the appropriate handle, but the tool becomes cumbersome to carry and store
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal handle design that can be coupled with pipe bender heads of different sizes through standardized coupling mechanisms. This allows a single handle to perform multiple functions by accommodating various pipe bender heads, eliminating the need for multiple specialized handles while maintaining the ability to bend different pipe sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs nesting by allowing smaller pipe bender heads to be coupled onto the universal handle in a hierarchical manner. The coupling mechanism enables different sized heads to be attached and detached as needed, with the heads effectively nesting onto the common handle structure, reducing the overall footprint when not in use.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pipe bender handles are carried for different pipe sizes, then all pipe bending needs can be met, but the weight and bulk increase
Solution Approach 1:
By designing a universal handle that can interface with multiple pipe bender head sizes through standardized couplings, the patent eliminates the need to carry multiple separate handles. The single universal handle weighs less than the cumulative weight of multiple specialized handles while maintaining full compatibility with various pipe bender heads.
3Ease of operation
If traditional pipe bender handles are used, then bending operations can be performed, but storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces storage volume by allowing pipe bender heads to be coupled to and stored on the universal handle in a nested configuration. When not in use, the heads can be attached to the handle, effectively utilizing the handle's volume rather than requiring separate storage space for each head-handle combination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the storage function with the operational function by designing the universal handle to serve as both the operational tool and the storage mechanism for pipe bender heads. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate storage containers or spaces, reducing overall storage requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Adapters and an all-in-one handle to couple with pipe bender heads of different sizes are disclosed. Different pipe bender heads may require differently sized handles that couple to the varying coupling bores of the pipe bender heads. Carrying and having multiple handles on the job site may be cumbersome. Instead of carrying multiple handles, the user may carry adapters that may be used to couple the different pipe bender heads to a single sized handle. The adapters may have a first mating section to couple with the coupling bores of various pipe bender heads and a second mating section to couple with the all-in-one handle.