Split Ring Pliers Wedge Tip Arcuate Edge

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tools for opening split rings often require significant force and lack control, potentially damaging the split ring, especially when dealing with larger sizes or adjusting for different object sizes.

Innovation Solution

A pair of levers with a wedge-shaped member featuring an arcuate peripheral edge allows for controlled opening of split rings by inserting the tip between helical turns, with surfaces that are tangential and circumferentially spaced to minimize damage, and a mechanism for adjusting jaw sizes to accommodate various split ring sizes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a protruding tip is used to insert between adjacent helical turns, then the split ring can be opened, but considerable force is required and control is difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of opening split ringVSAvoidforce required to overcome biasing

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The tip region is formed with an arcuate peripheral edge that extends around the longitudinal axis of the first jaw. This curved geometry allows the tip to better conform to the circular cross-section of the split ring, distributing the opening force more evenly across multiple contact points rather than concentrating it at a single protruding point, thereby reducing the total force required and improving control

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

The tip region's arcuate peripheral edge creates multiple discrete contact points around the circumference as it engages with the helical turns. This segmentation of the contact interface allows for more gradual and controlled separation of the helical turns, reducing the peak force required compared to a single-point protruding tip

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If force is applied to separate helical turns, then the split ring opens, but the surface coating may be damaged

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to open split ringVSAvoiddamage to surface coating

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The arcuate peripheral edge of the tip region provides a curved contact surface that better matches the geometry of the split ring's helical turns. This curved interface distributes the mechanical stress over a larger surface area and multiple contact points, reducing stress concentration that would otherwise damage the protective coating on the split ring surface

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

The wedge-shaped member with arcuate edge allows for progressive and controlled insertion between helical turns. The curved geometry enables the tip to naturally follow the circular path of the split ring, creating a more dynamic and adaptable engagement that reduces abrupt force application and minimizes coating damage risk

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of manufacture

If fixed-size tools are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but different sizes of split rings require different tools

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of tool manufacturingVSAvoidcompatibility with different split ring sizes

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The wedge-shaped member incorporates an arcuate peripheral edge that extends around the longitudinal axis, adding a circumferential dimension to the tip's engagement capability. This dimensional feature allows a single tool design to accommodate various split ring sizes by engaging at different angular positions and depths, providing versatility without requiring multiple fixed-size tools

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 apparatus enables easy alignment and controlled separation of split ring turns with reduced risk of damage, allowing for precise adjustment and compatibility with different sizes of split rings.

Implementation Method 1

a member having a wedge-shaped profile, tapering from a base region adjacent the first jaw to a tip region spaced from the base region, with the tip region being configured for insertion between adjacent helical turns

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectWedge: Wedge

Implementation Method 2

a pair of levers pivotally coupled together to define opposed first and second jaws and corresponding handles for opening and closing the first and second jaws

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentUS20240375256A1Split Ring Pliers

Publication Date: 2024.11.14 TOIT FISHING LTD

AI summary

Apparatus (10) for opening a split ring comprises a pair of levers (12, 14) which are pivotally coupled together and define a first jaw (20) and an opposing second jaw (22). A member (30) is mounted on the first jaw (20). The member (30) has a wedge-shaped profile, tapering from a base region (32) adjacent the first jaw (20) to a tip region (34) spaced from the base region (32). The tip region (34) is configured for insertion between adjacent helical turns of a split ring when gripped between the first and second jaws (20, 22). The tip region (34) has an arcuate peripheral edge (36) that extends at least partially around a longitudinal axis (38) of the first jaw (20).