Actuation Control Mechanism for Hybrid Power Tool
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hybrid AC/DC power tools require complex operation and control circuitries, making them more difficult to use compared to traditional DC-only or AC-only power tools, due to the need for versatile operation with both AC and DC power sources.
Innovation Solution
A power tool with a control circuit and actuation mechanism featuring a main actuator and secondary actuators that must be actuated simultaneously to power the motor, allowing access from different angles and positions, and a distributed control circuit for seamless switching between AC and DC power modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hybrid AC/DC power tools are designed to operate with both AC and DC power sources, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power tool is designed with a universal motor and control system that can accept both AC mains power and DC battery pack power, allowing the same tool to function in both corded and cordless modes without requiring separate tool designs
2Adaptability or versatility
If hybrid AC/DC power tools include complex control circuitries for versatile operation, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is pre-configured with logic that automatically detects the available power source type (AC or DC) and switches to the appropriate operating mode before the user needs to operate the tool, eliminating the need for manual mode selection
Solution Approach 2:
The power tool's control system automatically manages the complexity of hybrid operation by self-detecting the power source and self-adjusting its operating parameters, freeing the user from dealing with the complexity of dual-power operation
Data Source
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Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A power tool, which comprises: a motor (714) arranged to drive a work element (108); a control circuit (700) having a first switch arrangement (170A, 170B) for selectively coupling the motor (714) with a power source (706, 710); a first actuator (160) and a plurality of second actuators (162) operable to be actuated by an operator of the power tool for actuating the first switch arrangement (170A, 170B); both the first actuator (160) and any one of the plurality of second actuators (162) have to be actuated for actuating the first switch arrangement (170A, 170B) which couples the motor (714) with the power source (706, 710) and enables power to be supplied from the power source (706, 710) to the motor (714); and the plurality of second actuators (162) are accessible from at least two different angles and/or positions by the operator, the power tool provides improved safety of operation, allows the motor to be operated with different power source and makes it to be operated with ease and comfort.