Segmented Saw Latch Assembly for Compact Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional saw blades are cumbersome for portable applications due to their length, and existing methods for segmenting them for increased packability often require complex assembly and are prone to unintentional disengagement, especially in environments with loose materials.
Innovation Solution
A segmented tool system with a connection system featuring complementary latches and keys that allow for resilient deflection and interlocking, enabling selective assembly and disassembly of segments, and a fulcrum connection for pivoting, which maintains a stable working length while allowing for compact storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the saw blade is segmented into multiple pieces, then packability and portability are improved, but the complexity of assembly and risk of unintentional disengagement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The saw blade is divided into multiple segments that can be separated for compact storage and reassembled for use. Each segment contains connection features (latches and keys) that enable modular assembly while maintaining structural integrity when connected.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is designed to be self-assembling through resilient latches that automatically engage with keys when segments are brought together. The latches deflect under compression and lock into place without requiring external tools or complex manipulation by the user.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a connection system with latches and keys is used, then selective assembly and disassembly are enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch and key design serves multiple functions: the latch provides resilient deflection for easy engagement, the abutment surface prevents disengagement, and the ramp facilitates automatic alignment. This multi-functional design achieves selective assembly capability without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp acts as an intermediary feature between the latch and key, mediating their interaction during assembly. The ramped surface guides the latch onto the key and facilitates automatic alignment, reducing the complexity of precise manual alignment required.
3Ease of operation
If the latch is configured for resilient deflection, then easy interlocking is achieved, but the reliability may be compromised in environments with loose materials
Solution Approach 1:
The abutment surface on the latch head and the complementary key feature create a pre-engineered interference fit that prevents unintended disengagement. This prior cushioning design anticipates and prevents the harmful effect of loose materials causing accidental separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp feature uses a curved, angled surface rather than a flat interface. This curvature allows the latch to smoothly deflect and settle onto the key, maintaining reliable engagement while accommodating minor misalignments or external forces from loose materials.
4Reliability
If the abutment surface is defined in a recess of the arm, then engagement stability is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The latch is designed as a resilient component that can be formed from elastomeric or composite materials allowing for elastic deformation. This material choice enables the recess and abutment surface to accommodate reasonable manufacturing tolerances while maintaining stable engagement through the material's inherent compliance.
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 solution provides a portable and reliable cutting tool that maintains a long working length during use while reducing transport length, preventing unintentional disengagement and avoiding the need for external assembly tools, thus enhancing portability and safety.
Implementation Method 1
The latch may be configured for resilient deflection to selectively interlock with the other of the first and second segments
Implementation Method 2
at least one of the head and the key may include a ramp angled across the longitudinal direction to encourage lateral deflection of the latch under longitudinal force between the head and the other of the first and second segments for latching
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems, and methods for a segmented tool include a connection system for selectively connecting segments together for use. The connection system can be collectively formed of complementary portions of the segments which can be interlocked together to block against disconnection.