Tool-Free Support Member for Fastening Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fastening tools with adjustable support elements require tools to reposition and reattach the support members, leading to inefficiency and increased complexity, including the risk of malfunctions due to multi-part subassemblies.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece adjustable support member or foot that can be removably attached to the fastening tool without tools, using internal channels and mating tracks with detents for secure retention, preventing incorrect orientation and allowing for height adjustments without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional adjustable support elements are made removable to allow repositioning, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to multi-part subassemblies and swiveling mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The support element is designed as a one-piece unit that integrates the support function and adjustment capability into a single component. This eliminates the need for multi-part subassemblies and swiveling mechanisms, reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability through a simplified attachment system with tracks and detents
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is segmented into separate functional elements: the support element with channels, the tracks on the fastening tool, and the detent mechanism. This allows the support element to be a simple one-piece unit while the attachment mechanism provides the complexity needed for adjustable positioning
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional adjustable support elements are made removable to allow repositioning, then adaptability is improved, but reliability decreases due to increased likelihood of malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the support element into a one-piece unit without internal moving parts or swiveling mechanisms, the design eliminates potential failure points. The simple attachment system with tracks and detents provides reliable positioning while reducing the complexity that leads to malfunctions
3Strength
If conventional adjustable support elements require tools for repositioning, then connection strength is improved, but productivity decreases due to time-consuming adjustment process
Solution Approach 1:
The support element features a self-service attachment system where the operator can quickly engage and disengage the element by hand without tools. The channels in the support element work with the tracks and detents to provide automatic positioning and secure retention, eliminating the need for screwdrivers or wrenches while maintaining strong connection
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system incorporates dynamic elements such as the detent mechanism that allows quick engagement and disengagement. The support element can be rapidly positioned and secured by moving it along the tracks until the detents engage, providing both speed and strength in the connection
Data Source
AI summary
A fastening tool of the present invention includes a housing having an underside. The fastening tool also includes a magazine and a support foot connected to one of the housing underside and the magazine. Using a system of cooperating detents formed on the support foot and housing underside (or magazine, as the case may be), the support foot can be quickly and easily removably secured to the fastening tool without using any tools.