Reversible Socket Adapter Assembly for Multi-Size Bolt Torque Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reversible sockets are limited in their ability to efficiently engage and transfer torque to bolts with different head sizes, requiring multiple sockets for different tasks.
Innovation Solution
A tool comprising a reversible first socket with two socket ends of different sizes, an elongated adapter with a driven end and a drive end, and a second adapter with multiple interior portions, allowing for seamless switching between socket ends and adapters to engage bolts of varying sizes and transfer torque effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional reversible sockets are used with different sizes for different bolt heads, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases requiring multiple sockets
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly combines multiple socket sizes (first socket with first and second sizes, second socket with third and fourth sizes) into a single integrated tool that can engage bolts of different sizes. The elongated adapter with multiple drive ends allows one tool to perform functions previously requiring multiple separate sockets, achieving multi-functionality while reducing the number of tools needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter structure nests multiple sockets and drive ends within a single elongated body. The first and second sockets are positioned along the elongated adapter, with each socket containing multiple engagement portions for different bolt sizes. This nesting arrangement allows multiple functional elements to be compactly integrated into one tool.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adapters are used to engage different bolt sizes, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to frequent switching
Solution Approach 1:
The elongated adapter integrates multiple drive ends (first drive end, second drive end, third drive end) that can engage different socket sizes, allowing the user to switch between bolt sizes by simply rotating or repositioning the adapter rather than changing entire adapter assemblies. This reduces operational complexity and improves ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter design allows dynamic reconfiguration where the same elongated adapter can be oriented in different positions to engage different socket ends with different bolt sizes. The ball detent mechanisms enable quick, tool-free switching between engagement configurations, making the system adaptable during operation without requiring multiple separate tools.
3Adaptability or versatility
If torque is transferred through multiple adapter interfaces, then versatility is improved, but reliability of torque transfer may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The ball detent engagement mechanisms use spherical balls that engage with corresponding receptacles to create secure, reliable torque transfer paths. The curved, spherical contact surfaces ensure consistent mechanical engagement and reliable torque transmission from the drive member through the adapter to the socket and bolt head, maintaining reliability despite the multi-size capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool includes a reversable first socket having a pair of opposed first socket ends and a first engagement portion therebetween, and a reversable second socket having a pair of second opposed socket ends and a second engagement portion therebetween. The tool includes an elongated first adapter having a driven end, a first drive end opposite the driven end, and an extending length therebetween. The tool includes an elongated second adapter having a receiving end opposite a second drive end. The receiving end includes a first interior portion, a second interior portion connected to the first interior portion, and a third interior portion connected to the second interior portion. In a first configuration, the first drive end is engaged to the first engagement portion. In a second configuration, the second drive end is engaged to the second engagement portion. In a third configuration, the second drive end is engaged to the second engagement portion, and the first drive end is engaged with the third interior portion.