Rotary Module Locking for Fast Tool Detachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool devices require a time-consuming process to detach modules from each other, as they rely on threads and counter-threads which are inefficient for quick or simple detachment.
Innovation Solution
A tool device design featuring a first module with a receptacle and a second module with an insertion part that can be rotated between locked and enabled positions, utilizing projections and a locking mechanism to facilitate easy detachment, including a bolt and slot system and a catch mechanism for secure engagement and disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a thread and counter-thread connection is used to detach modules, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the detachment process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is segmented into multiple locking elements (first locking element on receptacle, second locking element on insertion part) that can independently engage with corresponding features. This segmentation allows the connection to be both secure (multiple contact points) and quickly detachable (each element can disengage independently), resolving the contradiction between reliability and detachment speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are designed to be dynamically controllable - they can transition between locked and unlocked states. The first locking element engages/disengages from the first engagement feature, and the second locking element engages/disengages from the second engagement feature, allowing rapid transition between secure connection and easy detachment, thus resolving the time-consuming issue while maintaining reliability.
2Loss of time
If a simple insertion mechanism is used, then detachment is quick and simple, but the connection lacks sufficient locking reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges two distinct locking mechanisms into one integrated connection system: the first locking element with the first engagement feature, and the second locking element with the second engagement feature. This combination provides redundant locking paths that enhance reliability while maintaining the simplicity of the overall insertion-detachment process, as both locking elements can engage/disengage together in a single motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system uses composite structural features - the receptacle has both a first engagement feature (for the first locking element) and a second engagement feature (for the second locking element). This composite design allows the single insertion part to simultaneously engage multiple locking points, achieving both quick detachment and high reliability through structural composition rather than material composition.
3Reliability
If multiple locking elements are used to secure the connection, then reliability increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle is designed with multi-functionality - it contains both the first engagement feature and the second engagement feature, serving dual purposes in securing the insertion part. Similarly, the insertion part has both the first locking element and the second locking element that perform complementary locking functions. This universal design approach increases reliability without proportionally increasing complexity, as the additional features are integrated into the existing structure rather than adding separate independent mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool device comprises a first module and a second module that can be detached from the first module, the first module having a receptacle and the second module having an insertion part that can be inserted in the receptacle along an insertion axis. The insertion part can be rotated in the receptacle about the insertion axis between a locked position and an enabled position, the receptacle having a first projection and the insertion part having a second projection. In the locked position, the second projection engages behind the first projection in the direction of the insertion axis, and in the enabled position, the first projection enables the second projection to pass in the direction of the insertion axis, the receptacle preventing an activation of the tool device in an initial position and allowing activation of the tool device in a pressed-on position.