Snap-Lock Handle Assembly for Power Tool Vibration Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for mounting detachable handles on power-driven hand tools, such as hedge trimmers, are inefficient due to the need for external fastening components like screws, which can loosen during use and require time-consuming assembly, and may lead to safety issues if not properly secured.
Innovation Solution
A power-driven hand tool design featuring a detachable handle with an automatic snap locking mechanism that allows for simple and secure attachment without external fastening components, ensuring the handle is locked in place before reaching operating positions, using a tubular shape with protrusions and recesses for easy insertion and a snap locking mechanism for secure rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external fastening components like screws are used to mount the handle, then the handle can be securely attached to the tool body, but the assembly procedure becomes time-consuming and requires additional fastening tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes external fastening components (screws, clips) from the system entirely. The handle mounting mechanism is integrated into the handle assembly itself through a cam-based automatic locking system that engages with the tool body without requiring separate fasteners or additional tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle assembly performs its own fastening function through the integrated cam mechanism. When the user inserts and rotates the handle, the cam automatically engages with the tool body's locking features, making the handle self-securing without requiring external fastening operations.
2Reliability
If multiple fastening components are used to secure the handle, then the handle attachment is more reliable, but the assembly procedure becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated cam mechanism within the handle assembly. The cam structure performs both the securing and locking functions that would traditionally require multiple separate fastening components, simplifying the overall assembly procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes multiple fastening components from the system, retaining only the essential cam-based locking mechanism. This extraction of unnecessary components reduces assembly complexity while maintaining adequate attachment reliability through the cam's mechanical engagement.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional fastening components are used, then the handle can be attached to the tool, but the fastening components may loosen over time due to vibrations from power tool operation
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism automatically maintains its locking engagement with the tool body through its mechanical design. The cam's geometry and the interaction with the tool body's locking features create a self-sustaining connection that resists loosening from vibrations without requiring additional locking components or maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes traditional fastening components (screws, clips) that are prone to loosening from vibrations. The integrated cam mechanism replaces these vulnerable components with a design inherently resistant to vibration-induced loosening, improving long-term reliability.
4Loss of time
If an automatic locking mechanism is implemented, then the handle can be quickly mounted without external fastening components, but the mechanism adds complexity to the handle design
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is fully integrated into the handle assembly, making the handle self-securing through its own structural elements. The cam and its interaction with the tool body constitute the entire locking mechanism, eliminating the need for separate fastening components and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the locking mechanism with the handle structure itself. The cam is an integral part of the handle assembly that performs both the mounting and locking functions, combining multiple functions into a single integrated component rather than adding separate mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method and devices for mounting and securing a handle (110) on a power driven hand tool (100) The power driven hand tool (100) is provided with a main body (104) comprising a housing (106) with a drive unit for driving a working member of the tool (100), a handle (110) for user operation of the tool (100), and a connecting part (112) for connecting the handle (110) with the main body (106). Further, a front end of the handle (110) may be inserted into a rear end of the connecting part (112) in a first rotational position in relation to the connecting part (112), and the handle (110) may be rotated into a second rotational position in relation to the connecting part (112). In the second rotational position, the handle (110) and the connecting part (112) are locked to each other by means of an automatic locking mechanism.