Portable Battery Welder Runtime Display and Fan Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Portable welders lack efficient power management and user interface features, such as real-time battery state-of-charge display and runtime prediction, which are crucial for optimizing welding operations and preventing unexpected power failures.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a buck converter for voltage control, a wireless communication controller for external device integration, and a user interface to display battery state-of-charge and remaining runtime, along with a fan control system based on temperature thresholds, to enhance power management and user experience.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Weight of moving object

If a battery pack is used to power the portable welder, then portability is improved, but power management and runtime monitoring capabilities deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveportabilityVSAvoidbattery state-of-charge display
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a user interface that provides real-time feedback on battery state-of-charge and estimated runtime. The controller continuously monitors battery voltage and current consumption, then displays this information to the user through LEDs or a screen, enabling informed decision-making about welding operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary between the battery pack and the welding circuitry. This controller manages power distribution, monitors battery status, and provides runtime estimates, acting as a mediator that translates raw battery data into useful operational information for the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Manufacturing precision

If voltage control is implemented using a buck converter, then welding output quality is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage output controlVSAvoidconverter circuitry
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical voltage regulation mechanisms with an electronic buck converter circuit. This solid-state solution provides precise voltage control through electronic switching and control, reducing mechanical complexity while improving control accuracy and reliability.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a buck converter that dynamically changes electrical parameters (switching frequency, duty cycle) to regulate output voltage. This allows precise control of welding current and voltage characteristics without requiring complex mechanical adjustments or multiple components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If fan control is added to manage temperature, then reliability is improved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethermal managementVSAvoidfan power consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic fan control where the fan operation is adjusted based on real-time temperature conditions. The controller monitors internal temperature sensors and activates or deactivates the fan accordingly, creating a dynamic response that optimizes cooling efficiency while minimizing unnecessary power consumption during normal operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses periodic temperature monitoring and intermittent fan activation rather than continuous operation. The controller checks temperature at set intervals and only activates the fan when temperature thresholds are exceeded, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining adequate thermal management through periodic cooling cycles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 solution provides reliable power output, real-time battery monitoring, and optimized fan operation, ensuring efficient welding operations and extended battery runtime by enabling informed user decisions and reducing power consumption.

Implementation Method 1

a voltage converter, and the converter is a buck converter

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a removable and rechargeable battery pack

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBattery (electricity): Battery (electricity)

Implementation Method 3

a fan, and the portable welder controls the operation of the fan based on a temperature associated with the portable welder

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectForced convection: Forced Convection

Data Source

PatentUS12194575B2Portable battery pack-powered welder
Publication Date: 2025.01.14 MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP
  • US12194575B2 patent drawing
  • US12194575B2 patent drawing
  • US12194575B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A portable welder that includes a portable housing, a ground clamp, an electrode holder, a user interface, and a battery pack interface. The ground clamp is connected to the portable housing through a ground cable and is configured to be connected to a metal workpiece. The electrode holder is connected to the portable housing through an electrode cable. The electrode holder includes a mount connected to the electrode cable and a user input. The mount is configured to hold a consumable electrode. The user input is configured to activate the portable welder. The user interface located on the housing. The battery pack interface is configured to receive a removable and rechargeable battery pack.