Retractable Lanyard System for Power Tool Driver Piece Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power tools with removable pieces face challenges in managing and accessing multiple components efficiently, particularly in keeping track of and quickly accessing the right piece for the tool's receiver, such as a chuck or quick change coupler.
Innovation Solution
A retractable lanyard system that stores and manages driver pieces by using a lanyard assembly with a strap and retraction system, allowing easy selection and secure tethering of pieces to the power tool, even when mounted, and automatic retraction into the tool housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple removable pieces are used with power tools, then task versatility is improved, but tracking and accessing the right piece becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested storage system where multiple driver pieces are stored within a hierarchical structure. The first storage compartment contains multiple driver pieces, and a second storage compartment can be nested within or attached to the first, creating an organized nesting arrangement that keeps all pieces contained and easily accessible without clutter
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary retrieval mechanism (such as a lanyard or retrieval system) that mediates between the storage compartment and the user. This intermediary component facilitates easy access to the correct driver piece by providing a controlled retrieval method, eliminating the need to search through all pieces manually
2Productivity
If driver pieces are kept accessible in the work area, then quick access is improved, but clutter and management difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage system into distinct compartments and organizational sections. Driver pieces are divided and placed in specific segments based on type, size, or frequency of use. This segmentation allows quick access to needed pieces while maintaining order and reducing clutter, as each segment has a designated purpose and location
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary organization of driver pieces during the storage setup phase. Pieces are pre-sorted, pre-positioned, and pre-arranged in the storage compartments according to their intended use or frequency of access. This preliminary action eliminates the need for manual searching during operation, enabling quick access without creating clutter
3Extent of automation
If a retractable lanyard system is implemented, then piece retrieval and storage is automated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service retrieval mechanism where the driver piece itself is attached to a retractable lanyard system. When the driver is removed from the tool, the lanyard automatically retracts or guides the driver back to its storage compartment without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by using the driver's own movement to trigger the retrieval action
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the storage compartment, retrieval mechanism, and driver holder into a single integrated assembly. The lanyard system is combined with the storage structure, eliminating the need for separate components. This merging reduces overall system complexity while maintaining automated retrieval functionality, as the components work together as a unified system
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 lanyard system provides easy access and secure storage of multiple driver pieces, reducing the need for user intervention and minimizing clutter in the work area, ensuring pieces remain safely tethered during use and easy to switch between tasks.
Implementation Method 1
a spring (108) attached to the flexible cord (134) and the spring mount shaft (110)
Implementation Method 2
Attached to the driver holder (116) is a friction wing (118) which can be used to pull out the lanyard strap (140) and driver piece (114)
Data Source
AI summary
Multiple attached lanyard systems for attaching to a power tool, with each lanyard system comprising a lanyard attached to a driver piece holder that holds a driver piece and is connected to a retraction system. The multiple attached lanyard systems providing a different driver pieces that can be selected by pulling each driver piece out of its attached lanyard system, extending the driver piece past a driver piece receiver and inserting the driver piece into the driver piece receiver.