Defect Repair Tool With Adjustable Solenoid Force

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for removing defects from metal panels, such as dents and protrusions, are inefficient and skill-dependent, often requiring manual labor and risking additional imperfections, especially when trying to correct visible surfaces without damaging them.

Innovation Solution

A defect repair tool with adjustable force levels and interchangeable tips that allows for consistent and repeatable force application to metal panels, enabling efficient removal of defects by categorizing defects and matching them with appropriate tips and force settings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If manual hammering or sanding methods are used to remove defects, then defect removal can be achieved, but the process is skill-dependent and risks creating additional imperfections

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedefect removal qualityVSAvoidconsistency of results
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual hammering and sanding operations with a controlled mechanical system that uses a solenoid-actuated plunger to apply precise, repeatable force through a tip to the defect, eliminating skill-dependent manual operations and reducing the risk of creating additional imperfections

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameters of force application by using an adjustable solenoid plunger mechanism that allows precise control over the magnitude and direction of force applied to the defect, enabling consistent and repeatable defect removal without the variability inherent in manual methods

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If traditional defect removal methods are used, then defects can be corrected, but additional manual labor and time are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedefect removal efficiencyVSAvoidtime for defect repair
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables self-service defect removal where the controlled force application system automatically performs the correction action when activated, reducing the need for skilled manual labor and accelerating the defect removal process compared to traditional hammering or sanding methods

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If force is applied to visible surface defects, then defects can be corrected, but there is risk of damaging the visible surface

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesurface integrityVSAvoidrisk of surface damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a tip as an intermediary element between the force-generating plunger and the defect on the visible surface. This tip can be selected and positioned to concentrate force precisely on the defect while protecting the surrounding visible surface from damage, allowing correction of visible surface defects without creating additional imperfections

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Facilitates efficient and cost-effective defect removal from metal panels, reducing manual labor and minimizing the risk of creating additional imperfections, while allowing for precise control over force application, even in hard-to-reach areas.

Implementation Method 1

a biasing device coupled to the shaft and to the anvil

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic potential energy storage and release: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS9908161B1Defect repair tool and method of using the same
Publication Date: 2018.03.06 HONDA MOTOR CO LTD
  • US9908161B1 patent drawing
  • US9908161B1 patent drawing
  • US9908161B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A tool for repairing defects in a member is provided. The tool includes a first housing, a second housing, and a shaft positioned at least partially within the first housing and the second housing. The shaft is configured to move along a longitudinal axis of the tool with respect to the first housing and the second housing. Furthermore, the tool includes an anvil coupled to the second housing, a biasing device coupled to the shaft and to the anvil, and a tip coupled to the anvil. The anvil is configured to be selectively contacted by the shaft and to transmit a force received from the shaft to the tip.