Quick connection tool handle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick-release connectors for tool handles require manipulation of the dirty end of the handle for attachment and detachment, and are not compatible with extendable handles.
Innovation Solution
A quick-release connector design featuring a male and female portion with inwardly defined keyways and pockets, utilizing a plunger and biasing spring to ensure axial and rotational alignment without direct manipulation of the dirty end, compatible with extendable handles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional quick-release connectors are used, then quick attachment and detachment is achieved, but the user must manipulate the dirty end of the handle which is contaminated during use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary release mechanism (button or lever) located at the clean end of the handle that acts as a mediator to trigger the disengagement of the connector. When the user presses this button, it activates a plunger or cam mechanism that automatically releases the locking elements, allowing the tool head to be detached without the user touching the dirty end. This intermediary device transfers the release function from the contaminated area to a clean area.
2Productivity
If conventional quick-release connectors are used, then attachment speed is improved, but compatibility with extendable or telescoping handles is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates universal mounting features that can accommodate various handle types including rigid, extendable, and telescoping handles. The mounting mechanism uses universal interfaces such as threaded inserts, bayonet mounts, or friction-fit sockets that work with different handle configurations. This allows the same tool head to be quickly attached to multiple handle types without requiring handle-specific adapter components.
3Stability of the object's composition
If tool heads are permanently integrated to handles, then structural stability is improved, but storage space increases and tool flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the tool system into separate modular segments: a handle portion and a tool head portion, connected through a quick-release interface. This segmentation allows the tool head to be detached when not in use, reducing storage space requirements and allowing users to carry only the necessary components. The modular design maintains structural stability during use through robust connection mechanisms while providing flexibility for storage and transport.
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
Enables quick and secure attachment and detachment of tool heads to handles without touching the dirty end, supporting telescoping or segmented handles.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing spring positioned within the male portion and configured to bias the plunger in the second direction
Data Source
AI summary
A quick-release connector comprising a male portion and female portion, wherein the male portion has at least one outwardly facing key congruent with an at least one inwardly facing keyway of the female portion. The male portion includes a spring-biased plunger protruding from a leading end which provides a biasing force sufficient to securely seat the key into an internal pocket of the female member upon rotation and release of the male portion, thereby ensuring rotational and axial alignment between the male and female portion. The male portion and female portion can be affixed to a handle and toolhead, respectively, so that a handle can quickly be swapped between multiple toolheads.