Cam-Actuated Accessory Clamp for Oscillating Power Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing oscillating power tools require a separate hand tool to change or replace accessory bits, which can be easily misplaced and time-consuming to configure.
Innovation Solution
A clamping device with a first flange, spindle member, and cam member that securely connects the accessory to the power tool, allowing for quick and tool-free changes by rotating between clamped and unclamped positions, utilizing a cam surface and follower member to interact and bias the accessory between flanges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate hand tool is used to fasten the accessory bit to the power tool, then the accessory bit can be securely connected, but the configuration process becomes time-consuming and the hand tool can be misplaced
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening function is merged into the power tool itself through the cam member mechanism. The cam member, when rotated, directly engages with the accessory bit holder to secure it, eliminating the need for a separate hand tool. This integration allows users to quickly fasten and secure accessory bits using only their fingers, significantly reducing configuration time while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The power tool performs the fastening operation itself through the cam member mechanism rather than requiring an external tool. The cam member is designed to be manually rotated by the user to engage and secure the accessory bit, making the system self-sufficient for the fastening operation and eliminating dependency on separate hand tools.
2Reliability
If a separate hand tool is required for fastening, then secure connection is achieved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening function is merged into the power tool itself through the cam member mechanism. The cam member, when rotated, directly engages with the accessory bit holder to secure it, eliminating the need for a separate hand tool. This integration allows users to quickly fasten and secure accessory bits using only their fingers, significantly reducing configuration time while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The power tool performs the fastening operation itself through the cam member mechanism rather than requiring an external tool. The cam member is designed to be manually rotated by the user to engage and secure the accessory bit, making the system self-sufficient for the fastening operation and eliminating dependency on separate hand tools.
3Productivity
If a cam member mechanism is used for tool-free fastening, then ease of operation and speed are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping device is segmented into distinct functional components: the cam member for actuation, the follower member for motion conversion, and the clamp members for securing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall design modular and manageable, reducing the perceived complexity despite the advanced mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam member utilizes a curved cam surface that converts rotational motion into linear motion of the follower member. This curved geometry is a simple yet effective mechanical principle that enables the tool-free fastening function without requiring complex control systems or multiple components, achieving high productivity with relatively simple design.
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 secure and efficient attachment and detachment of accessory bits without additional tools, reducing configuration time and minimizing dust during operations by providing a zero-clearance connection, enhancing torque transfer and reducing heat generation.
Implementation Method 1
The cam member includes a cam surface configured to interact with the follower surface, the cam member is rotatable about the longitudinal axis to a clamped position and to an unclamped position
Implementation Method 2
The spindle member includes a second flange provided on an end of the spindle member and a follower member provided on an opposite end of the spindle member
Data Source
AI summary
A clamping device for clamping an accessory to a power tool includes a first flange, a spindle member, and a cam member. The first flange is coupled to a drive system of the power tool and is configured to receive the accessory. The spindle member defines a longitudinal axis and includes a second flange provided on an end of the spindle member and a follower member provided on an opposite end of the spindle member. The cam member includes a cam surface configured to interact with the follower surface, the cam member is rotatable about the longitudinal axis to a clamped position and to an unclamped position. In the unclamped position the accessory is removable from the first flange, and in the clamped position the accessory is clamped between the first flange and the second flange.