Segmented Tool Handle With Conical Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools with ball detent and recess locking mechanisms are prone to disengagement when excessive force is applied, leading to unexpected changes in the locking position due to reliance on elastic force.
Innovation Solution
A tool with a segmented handle featuring a fastener with a conical abutting portion and threaded connections between tubes, allowing for secure engagement and disengagement without relying solely on elastic force, and a positioning member with a biasing mechanism for stable tube connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a ball detent and recess locking mechanism with spring elastic force is used, then the locking device can achieve locking effect, but the engagement is reduced when excessive force is applied causing unexpected disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is divided into multiple segments (first tube and second tube) that can be independently positioned and secured. The locking mechanism uses multiple ball detents distributed at different positions and angles, rather than relying on a single ball-spring assembly, distributing the locking force and improving stability under load.
Solution Approach 2:
The ball detents are designed with spherical geometry to engage with corresponding recesses in the tube segments. The conical surface of the abutting portion works in conjunction with the spherical ball detents to provide progressive engagement and maintain reliable locking under varying force conditions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single-piece handle structure is used, then the structure is simple, but the tool cannot be adjusted or adapted for different uses
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is segmented into multiple detachable tubes (first tube, second tube, etc.) that can be independently assembled and configured. Each tube can be locked or unlocked by rotating the preceding tube, allowing the user to adjust the handle length and configuration based on specific task requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism allows the handle segments to transition between locked and unlocked states dynamically. By rotating one tube relative to another, the ball detents engage or disengage from recesses, enabling the handle configuration to change adaptively without requiring complete disassembly.
3Reliability
If a ball detent locking mechanism relying on spring elastic force is used, then the locking effect is achieved, but the mechanism is complex and prone to unexpected disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional spring-loaded ball detent mechanism is replaced by a simpler rotation-based locking system. The ball detents are positioned in recesses that engage through the relative rotation of tube segments, eliminating the need for complex spring assemblies while maintaining reliable locking through geometric engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using spring force to push the ball detent into the recess, the mechanism uses the rotational motion of the tube segments to directly engage the ball detents with the recesses. The locking action is inverted from a linear spring-driven motion to a rotational geometric engagement, simplifying the mechanism and improving reliability.
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 stable and secure connection between tool components, preventing unintended disengagement even under excessive force, ensuring reliable operation and preventing accidental changes in the locking position.
Implementation Method 1
A distal end of the fastener is threadedly connected to the limiting seat
Implementation Method 2
a proximal end of the fastener is provided with an abutting portion with a conical surface. The abutting portion passes through the second fastening hole and is inserted into the first fastening hole to abut against an inner periphery of first fastening hole
Implementation Method 3
one end of the biasing member abuts against a bottom of the positioning aperture and the other end of the biasing member abuts against the positioning member, and the biasing member biases the positioning member to the positioning position
Data Source
AI summary
A tool with a segmented tool handle includes a first tube, a second tube and a limiting seat. The first tube has a first inner hole and a first fastening hole. The second tube has one end inserted into the first inner hole, a second inner hole and a second fastening hole. The limiting seat is disposed in the second inner hole and connected with a fastener. An end of the fastener is threadedly connected to the limiting seat and the other end of the fastener has a conical abutting portion. The abutting portion abuts against an inner periphery of first fastening hole when the fastener is in a fastened position. The abutting portion detaches from the first fastening hole when the fastener is in a unfastened position.