Rotatable Tool Lock Bar for Multi-Position Blade Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding tools lack advancements in strength, safety, and positional selectivity, with a need for improved locking mechanisms that can withstand extreme use and provide versatile, efficient, and ergonomic operation.
Innovation Solution
A lockable mechanism that allows a multi-tool blade to be locked compactly and safely in various positions, featuring a spring bias lock mechanism for one-handed opening and ambidextrous operation, utilizing a tensioning mechanism to secure the blade in specific angles for optimal performance in tasks like game skinning and self-defense.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional locking mechanism is used, then the blade can be locked in position, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking mechanism and tensioning mechanism into a single integrated assembly. The lock bar integrates both locking and tensioning functions, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms. This merging reduces device complexity while maintaining reliable blade locking capability through the unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock bar serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both a locking element and a tensioning element. The same component that secures the blade in position also provides the tensioning force needed for cutting operations. This multi-functionality reduces the number of parts and simplifies the overall device structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple locking positions are provided, then positional selectivity and versatility improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blade is divided into multiple segments along its length, with each segment capable of being locked at different positions relative to the handle. This segmentation allows the blade to achieve multiple locking positions without requiring a complex multi-component locking system. Each segment can be independently positioned and secured.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism allows dynamic adjustment of blade positions during operation. The blade can be freely rotated to different angles and locked at any desired position, providing versatility without requiring pre-configured fixed positions. This dynamic capability achieves positional selectivity through simple rotational movement rather than complex mechanical switches.
3Ease of operation
If a spring bias lock mechanism is used, then one-handed operation and ease of use improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring bias mechanism automatically engages and disengages the locking bar without requiring manual intervention. The spring provides continuous force to maintain the locked position, and releasing the lock simply requires overcoming this spring force, which can be done with one hand. The mechanism serves itself by using spring energy to maintain locking without additional actuators or complex controls.
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 mechanism enhances tool strength, safety, and versatility by providing secure, ergonomic, and efficient operation with reduced manufacturing costs, allowing for multiple locking positions and one-handed opening, suitable for diverse tasks such as self-defense, survival, and craftsmanship.
Implementation Method 1
A rotatable tool (56) or methods for adjusting a tool may include a spring bias lock mechanism (59) configured to lock a blade (45) to a handle (20) at a secured position (72)
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a tensioning mechanism to secure the blade in specific angles for optimal performance in tasks like game skinning and self-defense
Data Source
AI summary
A rotatable tool which may include a blade, handle, a multi-positional radially rotating placement system, a spring bias lock mechanism, and a user activated unlock mechanism, and the like. Methods of use thereof by a user or other persons, possibly for instances such as self-defense, survival, cutting, perforating, slicing, sawing, chopping, tradecraft, or the like are also included.