Reconfigurable Applicator Handle for Ergonomic Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing applicator devices for dispensing materials like sealants and adhesives are cumbersome and require extensive disassembly and reassembly to adapt for different application conditions, leading to user strain and safety risks due to their bulk and the need for intricate operations in challenging environments.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable applicator system with a combination trigger handle that can be adjusted between overhand and underhand configurations, allowing ergonomic adaptation without disassembly, featuring a frame portion with stabilization and stopping members to secure cartridges in place during orientation changes, and pneumatic actuation for efficient dispensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If known applicator devices are flipped or re-oriented for different situations, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to the need to secure material cartridges in place
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator device incorporates a rotatable handle assembly that allows dynamic reconfiguration between multiple grip positions (pistol grip, suitcase grip, and intermediate positions) without requiring disassembly. The handle can be rotated to any angular position while maintaining secure connection to the cartridge, enabling operators to adapt to different work heights and angles effortlessly.
Solution Approach 2:
The single applicator device is designed to perform multiple functions through handle rotation, serving as both an overhead applicator (pistol grip position) and a below-waist applicator (suitcase grip position), eliminating the need for separate devices for different application scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If applicator devices are taken apart and reassembled to suit different tasks, then adaptability is improved, but productivity and ease of operation deteriorate due to extensive disassembly and reassembly procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator features a dynamically adjustable handle that can be rotated and locked into different positions without disassembly. The handle assembly includes a rotation mechanism with locking features that secure the handle at desired angles, allowing rapid reconfiguration during operation to match different work requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator is segmented into modular components (handle, cartridge, body) that maintain permanent connections while allowing relative movement. The handle segment can rotate independently relative to the cartridge and body segments, providing reconfigurability without requiring complete disassembly and reassembly of the device.
3Ease of operation
If the bulk and mass of the device are reduced, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to the need to hold cartridges in place during reorientation
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable handle assembly incorporates dynamic securing features including spring-loaded latches and friction-based locking mechanisms that automatically engage at various angular positions. These features ensure the cartridge remains securely held during handle rotation and at intermediate positions, maintaining reliability while enabling ergonomic reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the operator and the cartridge, providing a secure connection that maintains cartridge positioning during reorientation. The handle's rotation mechanism includes intermediate locking features that prevent cartridge displacement while allowing smooth transitions between grip positions.
Data Source
AI summary
A reconfigurable applicator system for extrusive dispensing of a work material is provided. The system includes a body portion having an actuator coupled thereto. A frame portion coupled to the body portion defines a support structure for at least one cartridge unit containing the work material. A combination trigger handle portion is coupled to the body portion to be adjustable between angularly displaced first and second grip positions relative to the frame portion. The combination trigger handle portion includes at least first and second selectable triggers coupled to the actuator, which responds to each of the first and second triggers to actuate extrusive dispensing of the work material from the cartridge unit. The combination trigger handle portion in the first and second grip positions alternatively configures the system between overhand and underhand configurations.