Power-Tool Torsion Spring Adapter for Garage Door Balancing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for winding torsion springs in garage door suspension systems are labor-intensive, prone to error, and require multiple tools, making it difficult to wind multiple springs simultaneously.

Innovation Solution

An adaptive tool featuring a hollow rod configured to interact with a power tool, allowing for efficient winding of torsion springs by securing the rod to the spring bar and using a power tool to rotate the rod and add tension to the spring.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual winding methods are used, then the process can be completed with simple tools, but the labor intensity and time required increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewinding speedVSAvoidmanual handling difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical winding operations with a power-driven system. The adapter assembly connects a power tool to the torsion spring winding cone, enabling automated rotation and winding. This substitution of manual mechanics with powered mechanics directly increases winding speed while reducing the physical effort and skill required for operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If conventional winding bars are used, then the equipment is simple, but multiple tools are required and multiple springs cannot be wound simultaneously

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of springs wound per operationVSAvoidtool requirements

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter assembly serves as a universal interface that can connect power tools to multiple different torsion spring configurations. The design incorporates adjustable components and various mounting options that allow a single adapter device to work with different spring sizes and types, enabling one tool to perform multiple winding operations on different springs without requiring specialized tools for each case.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the functions of multiple separate winding operations into a single integrated process. By providing an adapter that can engage with the winding cone and transmit power tool rotation directly to the spring, it merges the functions of holding the spring, providing rotational force, and controlling the winding process into one unified system that can handle multiple springs in sequence or simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If traditional winding methods are used, then the setup is straightforward, but the process is prone to error and safety issues

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewinding accuracyVSAvoidoperator skill requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter assembly incorporates mechanisms that provide feedback during the winding process. The direct connection between the power tool and the winding cone allows for controlled rotation with observable progression. The design includes features that enable the operator to monitor winding tension and rotation count, providing real-time feedback that helps prevent over-winding or under-winding, thereby improving accuracy while reducing the need for highly skilled operators.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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 adaptive tool significantly reduces the time and labor required to wind torsion springs, allows for simultaneous winding of multiple springs, and enhances safety by minimizing manual handling and physical strain.

Implementation Method 1

gripping the hollow rod with a power tool, and actuating the power tool to rotate the hollow rod and the component of the garage door suspension system to add tension to the torsion spring

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPower tool rotation:

Implementation Method 2

The torsion springs take a portion of the weight of the garage door, and wind or unwind as the door opens and closes

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTorsion spring mechanism: Torsion Spring

Data Source

PatentUS20250122755A1Adaptive Tool For Winding Torsion Springs And Balancing Garage Door Suspension Systems And Associated Method Of Use Of The Adaptive Tool In Balancing Garage Door Suspension Systems

Publication Date: 2025.04.17 DETMAN DAVID

AI summary

An adaptive tool for winding a torsion spring of a garage door suspension system is provided. The adaptive tool includes a hollow rod configured to interact with a power tool, the hollow rod defining a cavity configured to receive a component of the garage door suspension system and an aperture configured to receive a fastener for coupling the hollow rod to the component of the garage door suspension system and including an exterior surface, the exterior surface having a plurality of faces configured to be gripped by the power tool.