Tool Suspender With Locking Jaws Reduces Operator Fatigue
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Solution Overview
Problem
Industrial handheld tools, such as strapping tools, require significant labor for repeated use, as operators need to frequently pick up and put down the tools to perform tasks efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A tool suspender system comprising a first and second plate, a gripping assembly with movable jaws, and a locking assembly, which allows the tool to be securely suspended when in use and easily released when not in use, reducing operator fatigue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the tool is held manually by the operator, then the operator has full control over the tool, but the operator experiences fatigue and labor intensity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suspender device acts as an intermediary between the tool and the operator, supporting the tool's weight through a suspension mechanism while allowing the operator to maintain control. The gripping assembly with jaws and locking mechanism serves as the intermediary interface that secures the tool to the suspender, transferring the weight-bearing function from the operator's hands to the suspension system.
2Productivity
If the tool is suspended during use, then operator fatigue is reduced, but the tool must be frequently attached and detached
Solution Approach 1:
The locking assembly provides dynamic control over the gripping assembly's state, allowing rapid transition between locked (tool secured) and unlocked (tool released) configurations. This dynamic mechanism enables quick attachment and detachment of the tool to the suspender, reducing the time penalty for frequent tool suspension and release during task cycles.
3Reliability
If the gripping assembly is always locked, then the tool is securely held, but the operator cannot quickly release the tool when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The locking assembly is pre-configured to maintain the gripping assembly in a locked state during normal operation, ensuring secure tool holding. When release is needed, the locking assembly can be quickly actuated to transition the gripping assembly to an unlocked state, allowing rapid tool removal. This preliminary locking configuration with quick-release capability balances security and operational flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool suspender (100) comprising: a first plate (200); a second plate (300); a gripping assembly (400) between the first plate (200) and the second plate (300) and comprising first and second jaws (410, 430) supported by the first and second plates (200, 300), the first jaw (410) movable between a first closed position and a first open position and the second jaw (430) moveable between a second closed position and a second open position; and a locking assembly (500) having a locked configuration in which the locking assembly (500) prevents the first and second jaws (410, 430) from moving from their closed positions to their open positions and an unlocked configuration in which the locking assembly (500) does not prevent the first and second jaws (410, 430) from moving from their closed positions to their open positions.