Tool Support Base Alignment Pins for Extensible Arm Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting tools to extensible arms, such as telescopic or articulated support bases, require significant time and manual effort due to a single alignment step, limiting efficiency and versatility in affixing and powering various tools.
Innovation Solution
A common connection apparatus with multiple alignment steps and a design that includes a tool support base with alignment pins and power connectors, and a power supply support base with a stab receiver and power connectors, allowing for precise alignment and secure coupling of tools with different power requirements to an extensible arm.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single alignment step is used to connect a tool to an extensible arm, then the connection process is simple, but it requires significant time and manual effort
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment process is divided into multiple sequential steps using different alignment features. First, a stabilizing member with stabilizing fins provides coarse alignment and stabilization. Then, an alignment member with alignment fins provides precise alignment. Finally, power connectors engage to complete the connection. This segmentation allows each step to focus on a specific aspect of alignment, reducing overall connection time while maintaining simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizing member and alignment member are pre-positioned on the tool support base before connection. The stabilizing fins are预先 configured to engage with the power supply support base first, establishing a preliminary alignment that guides the subsequent engagement of alignment fins and power connectors. This preliminary action reduces the manual effort and time required for the final precise alignment.
2Measurement precision
If multiple alignment steps are implemented, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool support base is designed with multi-functional components that serve multiple purposes. The stabilizing member provides both structural support and coarse alignment through its stabilizing fins. The alignment member provides precise alignment through its alignment fins while also serving as a guide for power connector engagement. The power connectors not only provide electrical power but also serve as the final alignment reference. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each alignment step, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment features are nested within the tool support base structure. The stabilizing member is positioned to engage first, followed by the alignment member that nests into the established position, and finally the power connectors that nest into both the alignment member and power supply support base. This nested arrangement allows multiple alignment steps to be integrated into a compact configuration, minimizing the increase in overall device complexity while achieving high alignment precision.
3Reliability
If manual engagement is required for tool connection, then connection security is ensured, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection apparatus is designed to perform much of the alignment and connection process automatically once initiated. The stabilizing fins self-align and engage with the power supply support base, guiding the subsequent engagement of alignment fins and power connectors. The interlocking features and guide structures ensure that components automatically settle into their correct positions with proper seating force, reducing the need for continuous manual adjustment while maintaining secure connection. This self-service capability significantly improves operational efficiency while preserving connection security.
Data Source
AI summary
A common connection apparatus for coupling a power tool to an extensible arm and a power supply, the apparatus including a tool support base designed to support a tool, and a power supply support base designed to be affixed to the end of the extensible arm. The tool support base and the power supply support base each include a plurality of power connectors, positioned for engagement when the bases are aligned. The tool support base also has an alignment stab, which is received within a channel of the power supply support base. A plurality of pins are further positioned on the tool support base, to be received in apertures of the power supply support base. By this configuration, the bases may be aligned and engaged, facilitating the transmission of power from the machinery to which the arm is affixed, to the tool.