TWI836855B - Non-conductive magnetic retrieval tool - Google Patents

Abstract

A non-conductive retrieval tool with a magnet connected a handle by a linkage assembly. The linkage assembly can be adjustable to maintain an orientation or position based on manipulation of a user, and can be made of a non-conductive material to safely operate in electrical applications. In some embodiments, the tool can include a socket portion near the magnet to apply torque to work pieces.

Description

不導電磁性取回工具Non-conductive electromagnetic retrieval tool

本發明一般地涉及取回工具。更具體地，本發明涉及具有可調節連桿的不導電磁性取回工具。 The present invention generally relates to retrieval tools. More specifically, the present invention relates to a non-conductive magnetic retrieval tool having an adjustable connecting rod.

取回工具在汽車或電子應用中很常見。取回工具允許使用者夾持物體或以其它方式將物體連接至工具，以從某個位置移除物體。例如，取回工具可以包括可折疊鉗口，當使用者從某位置移除取回工具時，以爪狀方式夾持並移除物體。 Retrieval tools are common in automotive or electronic applications. Retrieval tools allow a user to grip an object or otherwise connect the object to the tool to remove the object from a location. For example, the retrieval tool may include collapsible jaws that grip and remove the object in a claw-like manner when the user removes the retrieval tool from a location.

透過取回工具可移除的物體包括金屬物體，例如工件。此外，一些取回工具被應用在高壓或其它電氣應用中，其中導電性是不利的。進一步地，一些取回工具缺乏通用性，僅用於取回物體。 Objects that can be removed by the retrieval tool include metallic objects such as workpieces. Additionally, some retrieval tools are used in high voltage or other electrical applications where electrical conductivity is unfavorable. Further, some retrieval tools lack versatility and are only used to retrieve objects.

本發明廣泛地包括一種不導電的取回工具，該取回工具在第一端具有手柄，在第二端具有磁體，並且具有連接手柄和磁體的連桿組件。例如，連桿組件可包括多個相互連接的連桿，每 個連桿都具有截頭圓錐形區段，該截頭圓錐形區段通向圓形區段，該圓形區段適於與其它連桿連接，從而形成可調節的連桿組件，該可調節的連桿組件保持使用者選擇的方向和位置。例如，當工具用於高壓應用時，連桿組件可以由不導電材料構成，以使導電性最小化。在一實施例中，該工具可以包括靠近磁體(例如在連桿組件的末端)的套筒部分，以除了用作傳統的取回工具之外，還向遠處的工件施加扭力。 The present invention broadly includes a non-conductive retrieval tool having a handle at a first end, a magnet at a second end, and a linkage assembly connecting the handle and the magnet. For example, a link assembly may include multiple interconnected links, each Each link has a frustoconical section that leads to a circular section adapted to be connected to other links to form an adjustable link assembly that can Adjustable linkage assembly maintains user-selected direction and position. For example, when the tool is used in high-voltage applications, the linkage assembly may be constructed of non-conductive materials to minimize conductivity. In one embodiment, the tool may include a sleeve portion proximate the magnet (eg, at the end of the linkage assembly) to apply torque to the remote workpiece in addition to serving as a traditional retrieval tool.

特別地，本發明廣泛地包括一種工具，該工具包括手柄和連接至該手柄的連桿組件。連桿組件包括：起始連桿，其連接至手柄並具有與手柄相對的起始連桿圓形部分；中間連桿，其連接至起始連桿，該中間連桿具有第一中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分和中間連桿圓形部分，該第一中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分連接至起始連桿圓形部分，該中間連桿圓形部分與中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分相對；以及末端連桿，其連接至中間連桿並包括磁體。在一實施例中，各連桿在構造上基本相同。在一實施例中，可以存在連接在一起的多個中間連桿，以擴展工具的可用性。 In particular, the present invention broadly includes a tool including a handle and a connecting rod assembly connected to the handle. The connecting rod assembly includes: a starting connecting rod connected to the handle and having a starting connecting rod circular portion opposite the handle; an intermediate connecting rod connected to the starting connecting rod, the intermediate connecting rod having a first intermediate connecting rod truncated cone portion and an intermediate connecting rod circular portion, the first intermediate connecting rod truncated cone portion connected to the starting connecting rod circular portion, the intermediate connecting rod circular portion opposite the intermediate connecting rod truncated cone portion; and an end connecting rod connected to the intermediate connecting rod and including a magnet. In one embodiment, each connecting rod is substantially identical in construction. In one embodiment, there may be multiple intermediate connecting rods connected together to expand the usability of the tool.

本發明還廣泛地包括用於將扭力傳遞到遠處的工件的工具，該工具包括手柄和連接至該手柄的連桿組件。連桿組件包括：起始連桿，其連接至手柄並具有與手柄相對的起始連桿圓形部分；中間連桿，其連接至起始連桿並包括中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分和中間連桿圓形部分，該中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分連接至起始連桿圓形部分，該中間連桿圓形部分與中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分 相對；以及末端連桿，其連接至中間連桿並包括與中間連桿相對的套筒部分和位於套筒部分和中間連桿之間的磁體。在一實施例中，各連桿在構造上基本相同。在一實施例中，可以存在連接在一起的多個中間連桿，以擴展工具的可用性。 The present invention also broadly includes a tool for transmitting torque to a remote workpiece, the tool including a handle and a connecting rod assembly connected to the handle. The connecting rod assembly includes: a starting connecting rod connected to the handle and having a starting connecting rod circular portion opposite the handle; an intermediate connecting rod connected to the starting connecting rod and including an intermediate connecting rod truncated cone portion and an intermediate connecting rod circular portion, the intermediate connecting rod truncated cone portion connected to the starting connecting rod circular portion, the intermediate connecting rod circular portion opposite the intermediate connecting rod truncated cone portion; and an end connecting rod connected to the intermediate connecting rod and including a sleeve portion opposite the intermediate connecting rod and a magnet located between the sleeve portion and the intermediate connecting rod. In one embodiment, each connecting rod is substantially identical in construction. In one embodiment, there may be multiple intermediate links connected together to expand the usability of the tool.

100:工具 100:Tools

105:手柄 105: Handle

110:連桿組件 110: Connecting rod assembly

115:起始連桿 115: Starting connecting rod

120:中間連桿 120:Intermediate connecting rod

120a:第一中間連桿 120a: First intermediate connecting rod

120b:第二中間連桿 120b: Second intermediate link

125:末端連桿 125:End link

130:磁體 130:Magnet

135:基部 135: Base

140:起始連桿圓形部分 140: Circular part of the starting connecting rod

145:起始連桿頸部 145: Starting connecting rod neck

150:起始連桿開口 150: Starting connecting rod opening

155:螺紋 155:Thread

160:中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分 160: The truncated cone-shaped part of the middle connecting rod

165:中間連桿圓形部分 165: The circular part of the middle connecting rod

165b:中間連桿圓形部分 165b: The circular part of the middle connecting rod

170:中間連桿頸部 170: Intermediate connecting rod neck

170b:中間連桿頸部 170b: Middle connecting rod neck

175a:中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分 175a: The truncated conical part of the middle connecting rod

175b:中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分 175b: The truncated conical part of the middle connecting rod

180:中間連桿開口 180: Middle connecting rod opening

185:末端連桿截頭圓錐形部分 185: The truncated conical part of the end connecting rod

190:殼體 190: Shell

195:磁體 195:Magnet

197:壁 197:Wall

202:殼體阻擋件 202: Shell blocking member

207:末端連桿開口 207: End connecting rod opening

212:套筒部分 212: Sleeve part

217:方形驅動器 217: Square Drive

300:工具 300:Tools

301:連接連桿 301:Connecting rod

302:第一連接連桿截頭圓錐形部分 302: The frustoconical part of the first connecting rod

303:第二連接連桿截頭圓錐形部分 303: The frustoconical part of the second connecting rod

304:連接連桿頸部 304: Connecting rod neck

305、306:連接連桿開口 305, 306: connecting rod opening

307:末端連桿開口 307: End connecting rod opening

310:連桿組件 310: Connecting rod assembly

325:末端連桿 325: End link

342:末端連桿圓形部分 342: Round part of the end connecting rod

390:殼體 390: Shell

395:磁體 395:Magnet

397:壁 397: Wall

415:起始連桿 415: Starting connecting rod

435:基部 435:Base

440:起始連桿截頭圓錐形部分 440: Starting connecting rod frustoconical part

445:起始連桿頸部 445: Starting connecting rod neck

450:起始連桿開口 450: Starting connecting rod opening

A-A、B-B、C-C:線 A-A, B-B, C-C: lines

圖1是根據本發明的實施例的工具的側視透視圖。 FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a tool according to an embodiment of the present invention.

圖2是根據本發明的實施例的起始連桿的側視圖。 FIG. 2 is a side view of a starting connecting rod according to an embodiment of the present invention.

圖3是根據本發明的實施例的另一個起始連桿的側視圖。 Figure 3 is a side view of another starting link according to an embodiment of the invention.

圖4是根據本發明的實施例的中間連桿的側視圖。 FIG. 4 is a side view of an intermediate connecting rod according to an embodiment of the present invention.

圖5是根據本發明的實施例的彼此連接的兩個中間連桿的側視圖。 FIG5 is a side view of two intermediate connecting rods connected to each other according to an embodiment of the present invention.

圖6是根據本發明的實施例的末端連桿的剖視圖。 FIG6 is a cross-sectional view of an end connecting rod according to an embodiment of the present invention.

圖7是根據本發明的實施例的另一個末端連桿的剖視圖。 Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of another end link according to an embodiment of the invention.

圖8是根據本發明的實施例的另一個末端連桿的剖視圖。 FIG8 is a cross-sectional view of another end connecting rod according to an embodiment of the present invention.

圖9是根據本發明的另一個實施例的工具的側視透視圖。 Figure 9 is a side perspective view of a tool according to another embodiment of the present invention.

圖10是圖9的工具的末端部分的沿圖9的線A-A截取的剖視圖。 10 is a cross-sectional view of the tip portion of the tool of FIG. 9 taken along line A-A of FIG. 9 .

圖11是根據本發明的實施例的圖9的工具的末端連桿的透視圖。 Figure 11 is a perspective view of an end link of the tool of Figure 9, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

圖12是圖11的末端連桿的側視圖。 Figure 12 is a side view of the end connecting rod of Figure 11.

圖13是圖12的末端連桿的沿圖12的線B-B截取的剖視圖。 FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the end link of FIG. 12 taken along line B-B of FIG. 12 .

圖14是根據本發明的實施例的圖9的工具的連接連桿的透視圖。 FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a connecting rod of the tool of FIG. 9 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

圖15是圖14的連接連桿的側視圖。 FIG. 15 is a side view of the connecting link of FIG. 14 .

圖16是圖15的連接連桿的沿圖15的線C-C截取的剖視圖。 FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the connecting link of FIG. 15 taken along line C-C of FIG. 15 .

圖17是根據本發明的另一個實施例的起始連桿的側視圖。 FIG. 17 is a side view of a starting connecting rod according to another embodiment of the present invention.

圖18是根據本發明的另一個實施例的另一個起始連桿的側視圖。 FIG. 18 is a side view of another starting connecting rod according to another embodiment of the present invention.

雖然本發明容許多種不同形式的實施例，但是在附圖中示出並且將在本文中詳細描述的本發明的優選實施例應作如下理解，即本公開被認為是本發明的原理的示例，並且不旨在將本發明的廣泛方面限制於所示實施例。如本文中所用，術語“本發明”不旨在限制本發明的申請專利範圍，而是僅為了解釋的目的而用於討論本發明的示例性實施例。 Although the present invention is susceptible of embodiments in many different forms, the preferred embodiments of the present invention shown in the accompanying drawings and described in detail herein should be understood as follows, that is, the present disclosure is considered an example of the principles of the present invention, and is not intended to limit the broad aspects of the present invention to the illustrated embodiments. As used herein, the term "present invention" is not intended to limit the scope of the patent application of the present invention, but is used only for the purpose of explanation to discuss exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

本發明廣泛地包括取回工具。在一實施例中，磁性端與手柄相對地設置，以允許磁性地拾取遠處的物體。例如，連桿組件可以將磁性端與手柄連接，並且連桿組件可以是可調節的，以維持基於使用者的操縱的取向或位置。在一實施例中，連桿組件可以由不導電的材料構成，以在電氣(例如，高壓的)應用中安全地操作。在一實施例中，套筒部分可以設置在磁體附近，該套 筒部分適於接合遠處的工件並向遠處的工件施加扭力。在又一實施例中，凸部可以設置在磁體附近，該凸部適於匹配地接合套筒，該套筒適合於接合遠處的工件。因此，取回工具可以用作常規的取回工具、電氣應用中的取回工具、扭力施加工具或上述工具的任意組合。 The present invention broadly includes retrieval tools. In one embodiment, the magnetic end is positioned opposite the handle to allow for magnetic pickup of distant objects. For example, the linkage assembly may connect the magnetic end to the handle, and the linkage assembly may be adjustable to maintain an orientation or position based on user manipulation. In one embodiment, the linkage assembly may be constructed from a non-conductive material to operate safely in electrical (eg, high voltage) applications. In one embodiment, the sleeve portion may be disposed adjacent the magnet, the sleeve portion The barrel portion is adapted to engage the remote workpiece and apply torque to the remote workpiece. In yet another embodiment, a protrusion may be provided adjacent the magnet, the protrusion being adapted to matingly engage a sleeve adapted to engage a remote workpiece. Thus, the retrieval tool can be used as a conventional retrieval tool, a retrieval tool in electrical applications, a torque application tool, or any combination of the above.

參考圖1，工具100可以包括手柄105和從手柄105延伸的連桿組件110。連桿組件110可包括起始連桿115，其連接至一個或多個中間連桿120，並終止於末端連桿125。例如，可以提供多個中間連桿120，多個中間連桿120可以被視為第一中間連桿120和最後中間連桿120之間的中介中間連桿120。在一實施例中，磁體130可以位於末端連桿125中或附近，以允許磁性接合和拾取諸如金屬螺釘和其它工件的物體。 1 , the tool 100 may include a handle 105 and a connecting rod assembly 110 extending from the handle 105. The connecting rod assembly 110 may include a starting connecting rod 115 connected to one or more intermediate connecting rods 120 and terminated at an end connecting rod 125. For example, a plurality of intermediate connecting rods 120 may be provided, and the plurality of intermediate connecting rods 120 may be considered as intermediate intermediate connecting rods 120 between a first intermediate connecting rod 120 and a last intermediate connecting rod 120. In one embodiment, a magnet 130 may be located in or near the end connecting rod 125 to allow magnetic engagement and picking up of objects such as metal screws and other workpieces.

參考圖2，起始連桿115可以包括基部135，該基部135透過起始連桿頸部145連接至起始連桿圓形部分140。基部135可以以任何方式(例如，透過粘合劑、螺紋、焊接或任何其它固定的或可拆卸的連接方法)連接至手柄105。起始連桿開口150可以限制在起始連桿圓形部分140中，當中間連桿120的相應部分接合起始連桿圓形部分140時，起始連桿開口150允許起始連桿圓形部分140的徑向運動。以這種方式，中間連桿120摩擦地接合起始連桿圓形部分140，從而允許中間連桿120相對於起始連桿115摩擦地連接，並且中間連桿120還可以以360度的方式圍繞起始連桿圓形部分140手動地旋轉到期望的位置或方向。起始 連桿頸部145可以在起始連桿圓形部分140和基部135之間提供間隙，以允許中間連桿120圍繞起始連桿115更好地旋轉。 2 , the start link 115 may include a base 135 connected to a start link circular portion 140 via a start link neck 145. The base 135 may be connected to the handle 105 in any manner (e.g., by adhesive, threading, welding, or any other fixed or removable connection method). A start link opening 150 may be constrained in the start link circular portion 140 to allow radial movement of the start link circular portion 140 when a corresponding portion of the intermediate link 120 engages the start link circular portion 140. In this manner, the intermediate link 120 frictionally engages the start link round portion 140, thereby allowing the intermediate link 120 to be frictionally connected relative to the start link 115, and the intermediate link 120 can also be manually rotated around the start link round portion 140 in a 360-degree manner to a desired position or direction. The start link neck 145 can provide a gap between the start link round portion 140 and the base 135 to allow the intermediate link 120 to better rotate around the start link 115.

參考圖3，可選地，起始連桿115可以包括圍繞基部135周向地佈置的螺紋155，以允許起始連桿115與手柄105之間的可螺紋連接地接合。例如，起始連桿115的螺紋155可螺紋連接地接合位於手柄105中的相應的螺紋。特別地，作為一個示例，手柄105的螺紋可以在手柄105的內部空腔內軸向地延伸。 Referring to FIG. 3 , optionally, the starting link 115 may include threads 155 circumferentially disposed about the base 135 to allow threadable engagement between the starting link 115 and the handle 105 . For example, threads 155 of starter link 115 may threadably engage corresponding threads located in handle 105 . Specifically, as one example, the threads of handle 105 may extend axially within the interior cavity of handle 105 .

圖4示出了根據至少一些當前公開的實施例的中間連桿120。如圖所示，中間連桿120可以包括中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分160，該中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分160透過中間連桿頸部170連接至中間連桿圓形部分165。類似於起始連桿開口150，中間連桿120可以包括中間連桿開口180，該中間連桿開口180允許中間連桿圓形部分165的摩擦接合和徑向移動，從而允許中間連桿120與相鄰的中介中間連桿的連接。例如，如圖5所示，透過將第一中間連桿120a的中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分175a放置在第二中間連桿120b的中間連桿圓形部分165b上方，第一中間連桿120a可以摩擦地接合第二中間連桿120b，以摩擦地互鎖這兩個部分。如圖所示，兩個部分之間的摩擦地互鎖允許使用者保持期望的位置和方向，同時由於兩個中間連桿120a、120b之間的球狀和套筒狀的連接，還仍然允許第一中間連桿120a可圍繞第二中間連桿120b旋轉。例如，透過使第二中間連桿120b的中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分175b和中間連桿圓形部分165b彼此間隔開，第二中間連桿120b 的中間連桿頸部170b可以為第一中間連桿120a的另外的旋轉運動提供間隙。以這樣的方式，第一中間連桿120a的中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分175a不會被第二中間連桿120b的中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分175b阻礙。應當理解的是，可以使用任何數量的摩擦地連接的中介中間連桿120來實現工具的期望的長度和可用性。 FIG4 illustrates an intermediate link 120 according to at least some presently disclosed embodiments. As shown, the intermediate link 120 may include an intermediate link truncated cone portion 160 connected to an intermediate link circular portion 165 via an intermediate link neck 170. Similar to the starter link opening 150, the intermediate link 120 may include an intermediate link opening 180 that allows frictional engagement and radial movement of the intermediate link circular portion 165, thereby allowing connection of the intermediate link 120 to an adjacent intermediate intermediate link. For example, as shown in Figure 5, the first intermediate link 120a can frictionally engage the second intermediate link 120b by placing the intermediate link truncated conical portion 175a of the first intermediate link 120a above the intermediate link circular portion 165b of the second intermediate link 120b to frictionally interlock the two parts. As shown, the frictional interlock between the two parts allows the user to maintain a desired position and orientation, while still allowing the first intermediate link 120a to rotate around the second intermediate link 120b due to the ball and sleeve connection between the two intermediate links 120a, 120b. For example, by spacing the intermediate link truncated cone portion 175b and the intermediate link circular portion 165b of the second intermediate link 120b from each other, the intermediate link neck 170b of the second intermediate link 120b can provide clearance for additional rotational movement of the first intermediate link 120a. In this way, the intermediate link truncated cone portion 175a of the first intermediate link 120a is not obstructed by the intermediate link truncated cone portion 175b of the second intermediate link 120b. It should be understood that any number of frictionally connected intermediate intermediate links 120 can be used to achieve the desired length and usability of the tool.

工具100可以終止於連桿組件110的末端連桿125，並且工具100可以包括用於取回物體的功能體，例如磁性的或可折疊的鉗口。例如，如圖6所示，末端連桿125可以包括殼體190，該殼體190具有位於殼體190內部並延伸至壁197的磁體195。與壁197相對的是殼體阻擋件202，該殼體阻擋件202防止在使用過程中磁體195離開殼體190。像起始連桿115和中間連桿120一樣，末端連桿115可以包括末端連桿截頭圓錐形部分185，該末端連桿截頭圓錐形部分185具有限制在其中的末端連桿開口207，以透過與上述類似的球和套筒型的方法，摩擦地連接至其它連桿的圓形部分，例如中間連桿圓形部分165。 The tool 100 may terminate at an end link 125 of the link assembly 110, and the tool 100 may include a functional body for retrieving an object, such as a magnetic or foldable jaw. For example, as shown in FIG6 , the end link 125 may include a housing 190 having a magnet 195 located inside the housing 190 and extending to a wall 197. Opposite the wall 197 is a housing block 202 that prevents the magnet 195 from leaving the housing 190 during use. Like the start link 115 and the intermediate link 120, the end link 115 may include an end link truncated cone portion 185 having an end link opening 207 confined therein for frictionally connecting to the circular portion of another link, such as the intermediate link circular portion 165, by a ball and sleeve type approach similar to that described above.

磁體195可用於取回鐵磁性材料，例如金屬工件。例如，工具100可以用於在難以觸及位置或區域中磁性地連接至螺釘、螺栓、墊圈和螺母並取回它們。由磁體195施加的力的大小可以基於磁體195的尺寸和位於磁體195附近的壁197的厚度來設計。例如，磁體195的力在壁197較薄的情況下可以更大，或者在一些實施例中，不設置壁197，使得磁體195的磁力的大小能夠不受阻礙地取回物體。如圖所示，殼體190可以是圓柱形的，該圓柱 形的形狀用於將磁體195的磁強度引導至適當的位置。 The magnet 195 can be used to retrieve ferromagnetic materials, such as metal workpieces. For example, the tool 100 can be used to magnetically connect to and retrieve screws, bolts, washers, and nuts in hard-to-reach locations or areas. The amount of force applied by the magnet 195 can be designed based on the size of the magnet 195 and the thickness of the wall 197 located near the magnet 195. For example, the force of the magnet 195 can be greater if the wall 197 is thinner, or in some embodiments, the wall 197 is not provided so that the magnetic force of the magnet 195 is large enough to retrieve the object unimpeded. As shown, the housing 190 can be cylindrical, and the cylindrical shape is used to direct the magnetic strength of the magnet 195 to the appropriate location.

圖7示出了末端連桿125，該末端連桿125不僅可以與取回工具一起使用，還可以用作將扭力傳遞到遠處的工件的工具100的末端連桿。例如，圖7的末端連桿125可以位於連桿組件110的與手柄105相對的一端，並且使用者可以透過旋轉手柄105將扭力傳遞至工件。由於連桿組件110的半剛性性質，使用者可以將中間連桿120選擇性地調節成優選的構造，然後工具100可以在末端連桿125處與工件接合，以將扭力傳遞至工件。 FIG. 7 shows an end link 125 that can be used not only with a retrieval tool, but also as an end link of the tool 100 for transmitting torque to a remote workpiece. For example, the end link 125 of FIG. 7 can be located at an end of the link assembly 110 opposite the handle 105, and the user can transmit torque to the workpiece by rotating the handle 105. Due to the semi-rigid nature of the link assembly 110, the user can selectively adjust the intermediate link 120 to a preferred configuration, and then the tool 100 can engage with the workpiece at the end link 125 to transmit torque to the workpiece.

如圖7所示，磁體195可以位於殼體190內的末端連桿125的中心部分，並且可以透過壁197與套筒部分212分開。套筒部分212的形狀可以設置為六邊形、雙六邊形、正方形或能夠夾持工件的頭部並向工件傳遞扭力的任何其它形狀。例如，套筒部分212的形狀可以設置為對應於工件的頭部的形狀。如上所述，磁體195可以向工件施加磁力，並且該磁力的大小的可以基於壁197的厚度以及磁體195的尺寸和材料來設計。因此，使用者可以使用工具100來夾持工件、磁性地連接至工件以及將扭力施加至工件。 As shown in FIG. 7 , the magnet 195 can be located in the center portion of the end link 125 within the housing 190 and can be separated from the sleeve portion 212 by the wall 197. The shape of the sleeve portion 212 can be set to be a hexagon, a double hexagon, a square, or any other shape that can clamp the head of the workpiece and transmit torque to the workpiece. For example, the shape of the sleeve portion 212 can be set to correspond to the shape of the head of the workpiece. As described above, the magnet 195 can apply a magnetic force to the workpiece, and the magnitude of the magnetic force can be designed based on the thickness of the wall 197 and the size and material of the magnet 195. Therefore, the user can use the tool 100 to clamp the workpiece, magnetically connect to the workpiece, and apply torque to the workpiece.

圖8示出了根據至少一些當前公開的實施例的另一末端連桿125。如圖所示，圖8的末端連桿125類似於圖7的末端連桿125，但是圖8的末端連桿125包括方形驅動器217，而不是末端連桿開口207。以這種方式，連桿組件110可透過方形驅動器217連接至末端連桿125，並且連桿組件110還可以基於方形驅動器 217連接機構的常規性質連接至其它末端連桿。因此，工具100可以利用可互換的末端連桿125，可互換的末端連桿125可以用於各種不同的應用。 FIG8 illustrates another end link 125 according to at least some currently disclosed embodiments. As shown, the end link 125 of FIG8 is similar to the end link 125 of FIG7 , but the end link 125 of FIG8 includes a square drive 217 instead of an end link opening 207. In this manner, the connecting rod assembly 110 can be connected to the end link 125 via the square drive 217, and the connecting rod assembly 110 can also be connected to other end links based on the conventional nature of the square drive 217 connection mechanism. Therefore, the tool 100 can utilize an interchangeable end link 125 that can be used in a variety of different applications.

在另一個實施例中，中間連桿120可以是翻轉的或轉向的，使得中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分160朝向背離手柄105的方向。例如，參考圖9，工具300可以包括手柄105和從手柄105延伸的連桿組件310。連桿組件310可以類似於上述的連桿組件110，除了中間連桿120被翻轉或轉向，使得中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分160朝向背離手柄105的方向。例如，連桿組件310可包括連接至連接連桿301的起始連桿115、一個或多個中間連桿120、以及末端連桿325。例如，可以提供多個中間連桿120，多個中間連桿120可以被視為第一中間連桿120和最後中間連桿120之間的中介中間連桿120。在一實施例中，磁體可以位於末端連桿325中或附近，以允許磁性接合和拾取諸如金屬螺釘和其它工件的物體。 In another embodiment, the intermediate link 120 may be flipped or turned so that the intermediate link frustoconical portion 160 faces away from the handle 105 . For example, referring to FIG. 9 , tool 300 may include handle 105 and linkage assembly 310 extending from handle 105 . The link assembly 310 may be similar to the link assembly 110 described above, except that the middle link 120 is flipped or turned so that the middle link frustoconical portion 160 faces away from the handle 105 . For example, link assembly 310 may include a starting link 115 connected to connecting link 301 , one or more intermediate links 120 , and an end link 325 . For example, a plurality of intermediate links 120 may be provided, which may be regarded as intermediate intermediate links 120 between the first intermediate link 120 and the last intermediate link 120 . In one embodiment, magnets may be located in or near end link 325 to allow magnetic engagement and pickup of objects such as metal screws and other workpieces.

起始連桿115可以與上述相同。例如，起始連桿115可連接至手柄105，並包括起始連桿圓形部分140(如圖2和/或圖3所示)。起始連桿115還可以包括起始連桿開口150，並且當連接連桿301的相應部分接合起始連桿圓形部分140時，起始連桿115允許起始連桿圓形部分140的徑向運動，如下面進一步詳細描述的。 The starting link 115 may be the same as described above. For example, starting link 115 may be connected to handle 105 and include starting link circular portion 140 (as shown in Figures 2 and/or 3). The starting link 115 may also include a starting link opening 150 and allow the starting link circular portion 140 to be opened when a corresponding portion of the connecting link 301 engages the starting link circular portion 140 Radial motion, as described in further detail below.

中間連桿120也可以與上述相同。例如，參考圖10，中間連桿120可以包括透過中間連桿頸部170(如圖4和圖5所示) 連接到中間連桿圓形部分165的中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分160。中間連桿120還可以包括中間連桿開口180，其允許中間連桿圓形部分165的摩擦接合和徑向移動，從而允許中間連桿120與相鄰的中介中間連桿的連接。應當理解的是，可以使用任何數量的摩擦地連接的中介中間連桿120來實現工具的期望的長度和可用性。 The intermediate link 120 may also be the same as described above. For example, referring to Figure 10, the intermediate link 120 may include a through-intermediate link neck 170 (shown in Figures 4 and 5). Intermediate link frustoconical portion 160 is connected to intermediate link circular portion 165 . The intermediate link 120 may also include an intermediate link opening 180 that allows frictional engagement and radial movement of the intermediate link circular portion 165 to allow connection of the intermediate link 120 with an adjacent intermediate intermediate link. It should be understood that any number of frictionally connected intermediate intermediate links 120 may be used to achieve the desired length and usability of the tool.

類似於上述的末端連桿125，末端連桿325可以包括用於取回物體的功能體，例如磁性的或可折疊的鉗口。例如，參考圖10至圖13，末端連桿325可以包括殼體390，該殼體390具有磁體395，磁體395設置在殼體390的空腔中並由壁397封閉。末端連桿325包括末端連桿圓形部分342和末端連桿開口307，該末端連桿開口307允許末端連桿圓形部分342的摩擦接合和徑向移動，以透過與上述類似的球和套筒型的方法，經由末端連桿圓形部分342與末端中間連桿120的中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分160的接合來允許末端連桿325至中間連桿120的連接。 Similar to end link 125 described above, end link 325 may include functionality for retrieving objects, such as magnetic or collapsible jaws. For example, referring to FIGS. 10-13 , the end link 325 may include a housing 390 having a magnet 395 disposed in a cavity of the housing 390 and enclosed by a wall 397 . The end link 325 includes an end link circular portion 342 and an end link opening 307 that allows frictional engagement and radial movement of the end link circular portion 342 through a ball and sleeve similar to that described above. The barrel method allows connection of the end link 325 to the intermediate link 120 via the engagement of the end link circular portion 342 with the intermediate link frustoconical portion 160 of the end intermediate link 120 .

末端連桿殼體390可以具有方形截面形狀，而不是圖11中所示的圓柱形形狀。以這種方式，磁體395可以設置在方形截面形狀的殼體中的空腔中，並且方形截面形狀的殼體可以設置在圖8中所示的方形驅動器217(方形開口)中或與之接合。 The end link housing 390 may have a square cross-sectional shape instead of the cylindrical shape shown in FIG. 11. In this way, the magnet 395 may be disposed in a cavity in the square cross-sectional shape housing, and the square cross-sectional shape housing may be disposed in or engaged with the square actuator 217 (square opening) shown in FIG. 8.

磁體395可用於取回鐵磁性材料，例如金屬工件。例如，工具300可以用於在難以觸及位置或區域中磁性地連接至螺釘、螺栓、墊圈和螺母並取回它們。由磁體395施加的力的大小可以基於磁體395的尺寸和位於磁體395附近的壁397的厚度來設計。 例如，磁體395的力在壁397較薄的情況下可以更大，或者在一些實施例中，不設置壁397，使得磁體395的磁力的大小能夠不受阻礙地取回物體。如圖所示，殼體390可以是圓柱形的，該圓柱形的形狀用於將磁體395的磁強度引導至適當的位置。 Magnet 395 may be used to retrieve ferromagnetic materials, such as metal workpieces. For example, tool 300 may be used to magnetically attach to and retrieve screws, bolts, washers, and nuts in hard-to-reach locations or areas. The amount of force exerted by magnet 395 may be designed based on the size of magnet 395 and the thickness of wall 397 located adjacent magnet 395. For example, the force of magnet 395 may be greater if wall 397 is thinner, or in some embodiments, no wall 397 is provided such that the magnetic force of magnet 395 is large enough to allow unimpeded retrieval of the object. As shown, housing 390 may be cylindrical, with the cylindrical shape used to direct the magnetic strength of magnet 395 to the appropriate location.

類似於末端連桿125，末端連桿325不僅可以與取回工具一起使用，還可以用作將扭力傳遞到遠處的工件的工具的末端連桿。例如，末端連桿325可以被修改為包括圖7中所示的套筒部分212、磁體195和壁197，除了圖7中示出的末端連桿截頭圓錐形部分185被末端連桿圓形部分342替換以外。 Similar to end link 125, end link 325 may be used not only with a retrieval tool, but also as an end link for a tool that transfers torque to a remote workpiece. For example, end link 325 may be modified to include sleeve portion 212, magnet 195, and wall 197 as shown in Figure 7, except that end link frustoconical portion 185 shown in Figure 7 is replaced by end link rounded Except for part 342 replacement.

在中間連桿120能夠被翻轉或轉動，並且末端中間連桿120的中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分160與末端連桿圓形部分342接合的情況下，中間連桿圓形部分165朝向背離手柄105的方向。為了將位於手柄105附近的起始或初始中間連桿120連接至起始連桿115，可以使用連接連桿301。 With the intermediate link 120 able to be flipped or rotated, and the intermediate link frustoconical portion 160 of the end intermediate link 120 engaged with the end link circular portion 342 , the intermediate link circular portion 165 faces away from the handle 105 direction. To connect the starting or initial intermediate link 120 located near the handle 105 to the starting link 115, a connecting link 301 may be used.

參照圖9和圖14至圖16，連接連桿301可以包括透過連接連桿頸部304連接在一起的第一連接連桿截頭圓錐形部分302和第二連接連桿截頭圓錐形部分303。第一連接連桿截頭圓錐形部分302和第二連接連桿截頭圓錐形部分303還可以遠離彼此，並位於連接連桿301的相對端上。第一連接連桿截頭圓錐形部分302和第二連接連桿截頭圓錐形部分303可以包括相應的連接連桿開口305、306，其允許連接連桿301的摩擦接合和徑向運動，並且允許連接連桿301與起始連桿115和起始或初始中間連桿120的 連接。例如，第一連接連桿截頭圓錐形部分302可以與起始連桿圓形部分140接合，第二連接連桿截頭圓錐形部分303可以與起始或初始中間連桿120的中間連桿圓形部分165接合。 Referring to Figures 9 and 14-16, the connecting link 301 may include a first connecting link frustoconical portion 302 and a second connecting link frustoconical portion 303 connected together through a connecting link neck 304. . The first connecting link frustoconical portion 302 and the second connecting link frustoconical portion 303 may also be located away from each other and on opposite ends of the connecting link 301 . The first connecting link frustoconical portion 302 and the second connecting link frustoconical portion 303 may include respective connecting link openings 305, 306 that permit frictional engagement and radial movement of the connecting link 301, and Allows connecting link 301 to starting link 115 and starting or initial intermediate link 120 connection. For example, a first connecting link frustoconical portion 302 may engage the starting link circular portion 140 and a second connecting link frustoconical portion 303 may engage an intermediate link of the starting or initial intermediate link 120 The circular portion 165 engages.

在其他實施例中，起始連桿115可以被修改為包括起始連桿截頭圓錐形部分，而不是起始連桿圓形部分140。例如，參考圖17，起始連桿415可以包括透過起始連桿頸部445連接到起始連桿截頭圓錐形部分440的基部435，並且可以代替起始連桿115和連接連桿301而結合到連桿組件310中。基部435可以以任何方式(例如，透過粘合劑、螺紋、焊接或任何其它固定的或可拆卸的連接方法)連接到手柄105。起始連桿開口450可以限制在起始連桿截頭圓錐形部分440中，該起始連桿截頭圓錐形部分440適於與起始或初始中間連桿120的中間連桿圓形部分165接合。起始連桿頸部445可以在起始連桿截頭圓錐形部分440和基部435之間提供間隙，以允許中間連桿120圍繞起始連桿415更好地旋轉。 In other embodiments, the starting link 115 may be modified to include a starting link frustoconical portion instead of the starting link circular portion 140 . For example, referring to FIG. 17 , starting link 415 may include a base 435 connected to starting link frustoconical portion 440 through starting link neck 445 , and may replace starting link 115 and connecting link 301 And incorporated into the connecting rod assembly 310. The base 435 may be connected to the handle 105 in any manner (eg, via adhesive, threads, welding, or any other fixed or removable connection method). The starting link opening 450 may be limited in a starting link frustoconical portion 440 that is adapted to interface with the intermediate link circular portion of the starting or initial intermediate link 120 165 engagement. The starting link neck 445 may provide clearance between the starting link frustoconical portion 440 and the base 435 to allow better rotation of the intermediate link 120 about the starting link 415 .

參照圖18，可選地，起始連桿415可以包括圍繞基部435周向地佈置的螺紋155，以允許起始連桿415與手柄105之間的可螺紋連接地接合。例如，起始連桿415的螺紋155可螺紋連接地接合位於手柄105中的相應的螺紋。特別地，作為一個示例，手柄105的螺紋可以在手柄105的內部空腔內軸向地延伸。如上所述，連桿組件(諸如連桿組件110、310)可以用於電氣應用中，在電氣應用中導電是不優選的。為此，連桿組件(諸如連桿組件 110、310)可以由不導電材料構造，或者塗覆有這種材料。如本文所使用的，術語“不導電”是指相對於金屬材料降低連桿組件(諸如連桿組件110、310)的導電性的任何材料。連桿組件(諸如連桿組件110、310)不必完全由不導電材料構成，連桿組件(諸如連桿組件110、310)也不需要包括金屬作為結構骨架材料。 18 , optionally, the starting link 415 may include threads 155 circumferentially disposed about the base 435 to allow threadable engagement between the starting link 415 and the handle 105 . For example, threads 155 of starter link 415 may threadably engage corresponding threads located in handle 105 . Specifically, as one example, the threads of handle 105 may extend axially within the interior cavity of handle 105 . As mentioned above, linkage assemblies (such as linkage assemblies 110, 310) may be used in electrical applications where conducting electricity is not preferred. For this purpose, connecting rod assemblies (such as connecting rod assemblies 110, 310) may be constructed of, or coated with, non-conductive material. As used herein, the term "non-conductive" refers to any material that reduces the electrical conductivity of a linkage assembly, such as linkage assemblies 110, 310, relative to metallic materials. Linkage assemblies (such as linkage assemblies 110, 310) need not be constructed entirely of non-conductive materials, nor need linkage assemblies (such as linkage assemblies 110, 310) include metal as the structural backbone material.

連桿組件(諸如連桿組件110、310)在本文中描述為是半剛性的，或者能夠被選擇性地調節成優選的構造。因此，連桿組件(諸如連桿組件110、310)的方向或位置可以由使用者根據需要進行操縱，但是可以在取回工件或將扭力傳遞至工件的同時保持連桿組件(諸如連桿組件110、310)的方向或位置。 Linkage assemblies, such as linkage assemblies 110, 310, are described herein as being semi-rigid or capable of being selectively adjusted into a preferred configuration. Thus, the direction or position of a link assembly, such as link assemblies 110, 310, can be manipulated by the user as desired, but the link assembly, such as link assembly 110, 310, can be maintained while retrieving or transferring torque to the work piece. 110, 310) direction or location.

如本文中所使用的，術語“連接”及其功能等同物不旨在一定限於兩個或更多個部件的直接地機械連接。相反，術語“連接”及其功能等同物旨在表示兩個或多個物體、特徵、工件和/或環境元素之間的任何直接或間接的機械、電氣或化學的連接。在一些示例中，“連接”還旨在表示一個物體與另一物體是一體的。 As used herein, the term "connected" and its functional equivalents are not intended to be necessarily limited to a direct mechanical connection of two or more components. Rather, the term "connection" and its functional equivalents are intended to mean any direct or indirect mechanical, electrical, or chemical connection between two or more objects, features, artifacts, and/or environmental elements. In some examples, "connected" is also intended to mean that one object is integral to another object.

在前文的描述和附圖中闡述的內容僅作為說明而不是作為限制。雖然已經示出和描述了特定實施例，但是對於本領域技術人員來說顯而易見的是，在不脫離發明人的貢獻的更寬泛的方面的情況下，可以進行改變和修改。當以基於現有技術的適當視角來看待時，所尋求的保護的實際範圍旨在於所附的權利要求書中限制。 What is set forth in the foregoing description and drawings is by way of illustration only and not by way of limitation. Although specific embodiments have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made without departing from the broader aspects of the inventors' contributions. The actual scope of the protection sought is intended to be limited in the appended claims, when viewed in a proper perspective based on the prior art.

105:手柄 105: Handle

115:起始連桿 115: Starting connecting rod

120:中間連桿 120:Intermediate connecting rod

300:工具 300: Tools

301:連接連桿 301: Connecting rod

310:連桿組件 310: Connecting rod assembly

325:末端連桿 325: End connecting rod

A-A:線 A-A: Line

Claims (20)

一種取回工具，包括： 手柄； 連桿組件，其包括： 起始連桿，其連接至所述手柄並且包括與所述手柄相對的起始連桿圓形部分； 連接連桿，其包括相對的第一連接連桿截頭圓錐形部分和第二連接連桿截頭圓錐形部分，其中所述第一連接連桿截頭圓錐形部分摩擦地連接至所述起始連桿圓形部分； 第一中間連桿，其包括摩擦地連接至所述第二連接連桿截頭圓錐形部分的中間連桿圓形部分； 第二中間連桿，其經由一個或多個第三中間連桿連接至所述第一中間連桿，並且包括中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分；以及 末端連桿，其包括摩擦地連接至所述中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分的末端連桿圓形部分。 A retrieval tool consisting of: handle; Connecting rod assembly, which includes: a starting link connected to the handle and including a starting link circular portion opposite the handle; A connecting link including opposing first connecting link frustoconical portions and a second connecting link frustoconical portion, wherein the first connecting link frustoconical portion is frictionally connected to the starting point. The circular part of the initial connecting rod; a first intermediate link including a circular intermediate link portion frictionally connected to a frustoconical portion of said second connecting link; a second intermediate link connected to the first intermediate link via one or more third intermediate links and including an intermediate link frustoconical portion; and An end link includes an end link circular portion frictionally connected to the intermediate link frustoconical portion. 如請求項1所述的取回工具，其中所述末端連桿包括與所述末端連桿圓形部分相對的驅動部分。A retrieval tool as described in claim 1, wherein the end connecting rod includes a driving portion opposite to the circular portion of the end connecting rod. 如請求項2所述的取回工具，其中所述驅動部分具有方形截面形狀。A retrieval tool as described in claim 2, wherein the driving portion has a square cross-sectional shape. 如請求項1所述的取回工具，其中所述末端連桿包括與所述末端連桿圓形部分相對的套筒部分。A retrieval tool as described in claim 1, wherein the end connecting rod includes a sleeve portion opposite to the circular portion of the end connecting rod. 如請求項4所述的取回工具，其中所述套筒部分具有六邊形截面形狀、雙六邊形截面形狀、或方形截面形狀。A retrieval tool as described in claim 4, wherein the sleeve portion has a hexagonal cross-sectional shape, a double hexagonal cross-sectional shape, or a square cross-sectional shape. 如請求項4所述的取回工具，其中所述套筒部分的形狀設置為與工件接合。The retrieval tool of claim 4, wherein the sleeve portion is shaped to engage the workpiece. 如請求項1所述的取回工具，其中所述末端連桿包括磁體。A retrieval tool as described in claim 1, wherein the end link includes a magnet. 如請求項7所述的取回工具，其中所述磁體佈置在所述末端連桿的殼體內。A retrieval tool as described in claim 7, wherein the magnet is arranged in the housing of the end connecting rod. 如請求項8所述的取回工具，其中所述末端連桿包括位於所述殼體內的壁，所述壁位於與所述末端連桿圓形部分相對的一側上。A retrieval tool as described in claim 8, wherein the end link includes a wall located within the housing, the wall being located on a side opposite to the rounded portion of the end link. 如請求項9所述的取回工具，其中所述末端連桿包括阻擋件，所述阻擋件與所述壁相對並形成所述殼體。A retrieval tool as described in claim 9, wherein the end link includes a blocker that opposes the wall and forms the housing. 如請求項8所述的取回工具，其中所述殼體是圓柱形的。A retrieval tool as described in claim 8, wherein the shell is cylindrical. 如請求項1所述的取回工具，其中所述末端連桿包括可折疊的鉗口。A retrieval tool as described in claim 1, wherein the end link includes a foldable clamp. 如請求項1所述的取回工具，其中所述連桿組件是由不導電材料製成和塗覆有不導電材料中的至少一者。A retrieval tool as described in claim 1, wherein the connecting rod assembly is at least one of made of a non-conductive material and coated with a non-conductive material. 一種取回工具，包括： 手柄； 連桿組件，其包括： 起始連桿，其連接至所述手柄並且包括與所述手柄相對的起始連桿截頭圓錐形部分； 第一中間連桿，其包括摩擦地連接至所述起始連桿截頭圓錐形部分的中間連桿圓形部分； 第二中間連桿，其經由一個或多個第三中間連桿連接至所述第一中間連桿，並且包括中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分；以及 末端連桿，其包括摩擦地連接至所述中間連桿截頭圓錐形部分的末端連桿圓形部分。 A retrieval tool, comprising: a handle; a connecting rod assembly, comprising: a starting connecting rod connected to the handle and comprising a starting connecting rod truncated cone portion opposite the handle; a first intermediate connecting rod, comprising an intermediate connecting rod circular portion frictionally connected to the starting connecting rod truncated cone portion; a second intermediate connecting rod, connected to the first intermediate connecting rod via one or more third intermediate connecting rods, and comprising an intermediate connecting rod truncated cone portion; and an end connecting rod, comprising an end connecting rod circular portion frictionally connected to the intermediate connecting rod truncated cone portion. 如請求項14所述的取回工具，其中所述末端連桿包括與所述末端連桿圓形部分相對的驅動部分。The retrieval tool of claim 14, wherein the end link includes a drive portion opposite the rounded portion of the end link. 如請求項14所述的取回工具，其中所述末端連桿包括與所述末端連桿圓形部分相對的套筒部分。A retrieval tool as described in claim 14, wherein the end connecting rod includes a sleeve portion opposite to the circular portion of the end connecting rod. 如請求項16所述的取回工具，其中所述套筒部分的形狀設置為與工件接合。The retrieval tool of claim 16, wherein the sleeve portion is shaped to engage the workpiece. 如請求項14所述的取回工具，其中所述末端連桿包括磁體。A retrieval tool as described in claim 14, wherein the end link includes a magnet. 如請求項18所述的取回工具，其中所述磁體佈置在所述末端連桿的殼體內。The retrieval tool of claim 18, wherein the magnet is disposed within a housing of the end link. 如請求項14所述的取回工具，其中所述連桿組件是由不導電材料製成和塗覆有不導電材料中的至少一者。The retrieval tool of claim 14, wherein the link assembly is at least one of made of a non-conductive material and coated with a non-conductive material.

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