Swing-Open Wrench Ring With Integrated Lever
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wrenches are cumbersome to use, especially when accessing screws or nuts in confined spaces or when the threaded rod is blocked at one or both ends, as they require threading from the end and can be difficult to operate in difficult positions without gripping the ring.
Innovation Solution
A wrench with a swing-open ring mechanism and a lever attached to the connecting member between the handle and the ring, allowing the ring to be opened radially onto a threaded rod without needing to grip it, enabling operation with one hand and providing a compact design that maintains the ratchet function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the ring is made swing-open to enable pushing onto threaded rods, then the wrench can be used in the middle of threaded rods and in confined spaces, but the structure becomes more complex and the operation becomes less intuitive
Solution Approach 1:
The ring is divided into two separate segments (first segment and second segment) that can pivot relative to each other about a pivot axis. This segmentation allows the ring to open for pushing onto threaded rods while maintaining structural integrity when closed, resolving the contradiction between versatility and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The ring transitions from a static closed structure to a dynamic system where the second segment can pivot relative to the first segment. This dynamic capability enables the ring to adapt between closed (for gripping) and open (for pushing onto rods) states, achieving versatility without permanent structural complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the ring is made swing-open to enable pushing onto threaded rods, then the wrench can access confined spaces, but the operation becomes cumbersome requiring two hands or difficult positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The lever is integrated into the connecting member structure itself, allowing the user to operate the swing-open mechanism using the same hand that holds the handle. This self-service design eliminates the need for a second hand or complex positioning, making the wrench easy to operate in confined spaces while maintaining versatility.
3Ease of operation
If a lever is added to operate the swing-open mechanism, then the ring can be opened easily without gripping it, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lever is merged with the connecting member that already connects the two ring segments. By integrating the lever into the existing connecting structure rather than adding a separate mechanism, the patent achieves easy ring opening operation while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting member serves multiple functions: it connects the two ring segments, provides the pivot axis for swinging the ring open, and incorporates the lever for operating the swing-open mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity while improving ease of operation.
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 wrench offers enhanced user-friendliness and versatility by allowing easy access to screws or nuts in tight spaces with a simple lever operation, reducing the need for cumbersome threading and enabling use in challenging positions without compromising the ratchet function.
Implementation Method 1
the second segment is pivotally articulated on the connecting member about a second pivot axis
Implementation Method 2
a lever for swinging open the ring is arranged on the connecting member
Implementation Method 3
The first pivot axis and the second pivot axis run parallel and spaced apart from one another
Data Source
Figure 1~7
AI summary
The spanner has a handle, and a pivotable ring (3) for positive embracing of a screw head or a nut. The ring comprises a segment (11) arranged at the handle, another segment (12) and a connection unit (20) that connects the latter segment with the former segment in an articulated manner. A lever (30) for pivoting the ring is arranged at the connection unit and extended along an outer side of the former segment. The lever is designed in an L-shape and made from curved metal sheet. The connection unit comprises a front bearing plate (21) and a rear bearing plate (22).