Backpack AC Power Pack for Cordless Yard Tools

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing weed trimmers face limitations with electric models being tethered to power sources and gas-powered models being heavy and loud, making them difficult to use for extended periods without fatigue.

Innovation Solution

A portable AC generating device in the form of a backpack with a wheeled frame, gasoline-powered electric generator or deep cycle battery, and DC to AC inverter, providing AC power for yard equipment while allowing for mobility and protection from inclement weather.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-generated harmful factors

If electric weed trimmer is used, then it is lighter and quieter to operate, but it is tethered to a limited radius to a power outlet

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovenoiseVSAvoidmobility
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the power source from the traditional stationary outlet and relocates it to a portable generator that can be carried by the user. This allows the electric weed trimmer to operate without being tethered to a power outlet while maintaining its quiet operation, effectively separating the power supply from the tool itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The portable generator acts as an intermediary between the user and the power outlet. Instead of directly plugging the trimmer into a stationary outlet, the generator provides mobile power conversion, enabling the trimmer to operate freely while still converting mechanical energy to electrical energy for the motor.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If gas-powered weed trimmer is used, then it is free to roam, but it is heavier to carry and loud

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovemobilityVSAvoidnoise
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The invention replaces the direct mechanical combustion engine with a generator-motor system. Instead of using a gasoline engine that directly drives the trimmer blade, the system uses a generator to produce electricity that powers an electric motor, thereby eliminating the noise and vibration of direct combustion while maintaining mobility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If gas-powered weed trimmer is used, then it is free to roam, but it is heavier to carry causing fatigue

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovemobilityVSAvoidweight
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention segments the power system into separate components: a portable generator unit and the trimmer unit. This allows the heavy generator to be carried separately or placed in a vehicle, while the trimmer itself remains lightweight and easy to maneuver, reducing user fatigue during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Enables the use of electric yard equipment without cords, reducing user fatigue and noise, while maintaining ease of use and functionality, by providing a mobile and weather-protected power source.

Implementation Method 1

a gasoline-powered electric generator which is placed upon the bottom platform

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCombustion: Combustion

Implementation Method 2

The gasoline-powered electric generator provides one or more AC receptacles each producing AC power

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

a DC to AC inverter which is located on the upper portion of the backpack frame

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11261782B1Portable AC power pack
Publication Date: 2022.03.01 ALVIS DONALD W
  • US11261782B1 patent drawing
  • US11261782B1 patent drawing
  • US11261782B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A portable power pack is carried on a back frame and harness. The power pack is battery-operated or gasoline-operated capable of generating up to two thousand two hundred Watts (2200 W) of 110-VAC power. A removable shroud can also be selectively attachable to the frame if so desired.