Buckle-Mounted Outlet with Electrical Disconnect for Belt Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cordless power tools are heavy due to directly connected batteries, require frequent charging, and are expensive to transition to, while corded tools face limitations with cord length and incompatibility issues, and existing solutions do not provide a standard battery pack with an integrated outlet for remote use without extension cords.
Innovation Solution
A belt with integrated battery, inverter, and buckle-mounted outlet that electrically disconnects to prevent power draw when not in use, allowing for the use of corded tools anywhere and compatibility with various tool brands, reducing user fatigue and eliminating extension cord needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If cordless tools use directly connected batteries, then portability is improved, but weight increases and user fatigue worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the power source into two separate components: a stationary power source (battery pack with inverter) and a portable tool unit. The battery pack remains fixed in location while the tool operates cordlessly, eliminating the need to carry heavy batteries during use while maintaining portability benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The heavy battery and inverter components are extracted from the tool body and placed in a separate stationary pack. This removes the weight burden from the moving tool while preserving the cordless operational freedom through wireless power transmission.
2Ease of operation
If cordless tools use rechargeable batteries, then mobility is improved, but energy consumption increases due to frequent charging
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the energy storage function (stationary battery pack) from the tool operation, allowing the tool to remain mobile while the power source stays fixed. This eliminates the need for frequent battery recharging during tool use.
Solution Approach 2:
The stationary power source unit serves multiple functions: it acts as a battery pack, inverter, and charging station simultaneously. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity and energy waste compared to dedicated battery packs for each tool.
3Power
If corded tools are used, then power availability is improved, but flexibility is reduced due to cord length limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses wireless power transmission with feedback control to maintain stable power delivery over varying distances. The wireless interface adjusts transmission parameters based on distance and load requirements, providing corded-level power availability without physical cord constraints.
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 corded tools without the weight and charging inefficiencies of cordless tools, allowing for flexible tool selection and use of corded tools anywhere, reducing fatigue and improving safety.
Implementation Method 1
an inverter for inverting a direct current output from the battery pack to an alternating current output
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention can have an article comprising a belt with two ends that can be selectably fastened together. A power source and an inverter can be secured within the belt. A buckle with an integrated outlet can be utilized within the belt. The buckle first piece has two cavities that each can have an electrical contact therein. A bridge can electrically connect the contacts. A second buckle piece can have first and second arms that are received within the cavities, respectively, of the first piece. The second piece can engage the first piece in two distinct positions, wherein in the first position the buckle is fastened but no electrical connection is made therein, and in the second position an electric circuit is completed. Breaking the electrical connection within the buckle electrically separates the power source and the inverter to prevent drawdown of the power source.